Petpals UK Ltd

14/02/2025

❤️🐾 Happy Valentine’s Day from Petpals! 🐾❤️

Today is all about L-O-V-E, whether it’s with your partner, family, friends, or your furry companions! 🥰🐶🐱

Wishing you a day full of love, laughter, and plenty of cuddles (plus a few extra belly rubs - for the pets, of course! 😉).

10/02/2025

🐾 Harnessing Animal Instincts for Business Success! 🐾

Our pets, with their unique instincts and behaviours, can teach us invaluable qualities that translate directly into success – particularly in franchising.

Here, Kevin Thackrah, Director of Petpals, draws on the wisdom of these loyal companions to share how their instincts and habits mirror the qualities every franchisee needs to thrive. From trust and loyalty to patience and adaptability, these fundamental traits are at the heart of running a successful business.

Read Kevin’s full article for the British Franchise Association here 👉 https://www.thebfa.org/news/harnessing-animal-instincts-for-business-success

When searching for business inspiration, we often turn to the usual suspects – successful entrepreneurs, bestselling books or trending podcasts. But sometimes, the most insightful lessons are right under our noses – or wagging their tails at our feet. Our pets, with their unique instincts and be...

06/02/2025

🦷🐶 February is Pet Dental Health Month! 🐱🦷

Did you know that 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease by the age of three? 😲 Poor dental health can lead to bad breath, pain, and even serious health issues like heart and kidney disease.

Here are some easy ways to keep your pet’s teeth in top shape:

✅ Brush their teeth regularly with pet-safe toothpaste 🪥
✅ Provide dental chews or toys to help reduce plaque & tartar 🦴
✅ Add PlaqueOff powder to their food – a natural supplement that supports dental health 🍽️
✅ Use a dental water additive liquid in their water to help fight bacteria & freshen breath 💧
✅ Schedule regular vet check-ups for professional dental care 🏥

A little effort now can prevent big problems later! Share your own pet dental health tips in the comments ⬇️

28/01/2025

🎉 Exciting News! 🎉

We’re delighted to announce that Holly Sayers is the new owner of Petpals Stockton! 🐾 Holly joined Petpals Stockton last year as a cat sitter while pursuing her degree in Canine and Feline Behaviour 👩‍🎓🐕🐈‍⬛- her passion and expertise make her the perfect fit to take the lead. 🌟

Holly, who is fully trained, insured, uniformed, and DBS checked, will continue to bring top-notch pet care services to Stockton and the surrounding areas of Hartburn, Stillington, Great Stainton, Billingham, Carlton and Portrack. 🏡🐾

Read more about Holly’s journey here: 👉 https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/news/teesside-news/petpals-stockton-holly-sayers-owner-30881633

Join us in wishing Holly all the best in this exciting new chapter! 🎊✨

Holly Sayers is the new boss of Petpals Stockton

27/01/2025

🤝 Supporting Causes! 🤝

🎉 We are delighted to share that the Petpals network has raised an impressive £400 for charity during this year’s annual conference! 🌟

By hosting a variety of raffles throughout the day, we were able to donate:

➡️ £300 to Hearing Dogs for Deaf People – This wonderful charity trains dogs to alert deaf people to important and life-saving sounds, offering greater independence and companionship.

➡️ £100 to the Army Benevolent Fund – The Soldiers' Charity provides lifelong support to soldiers, veterans, and their families, offering financial assistance and practical support when it’s needed most.

A huge thank you to everyone who contributed, your kindness and support have made a real difference. Together, we’ve helped two amazing causes! 🙏

Here’s to making even more positive impacts in the future! 💕

24/01/2025

💨⚠️ Pet Care & Safety During High Winds ⚠️💨
As Storm Éowyn brings yellow, amber and red weather warnings for high winds across the UK, it’s essential to keep our furry friends safe and secure.

Here are some tips to ensure your pets stay safe and comfortable during stormy weather:

🚶‍♀️🐕 Walk Safely
• If you are brave enough to face the elements, we advise you opt for shorter walks and always keep your dog on a lead. Strong winds can startle them, increasing the risk of unexpected bolting.
• Stay alert for falling debris and avoid walking near trees to minimise potential hazards.

🏡 Secure Your Garden
• Check fences, gates, and garden furniture to prevent anything from blowing over or causing harm.
• Ensure pets cannot escape through damaged fencing or open areas.

🐾 Indoor Enrichment
• Keep pets entertained indoors with toys, puzzles, or a game of fetch to burn off energy.
• Cats and small animals may feel safer indoors during high winds—make sure they have a cosy, secure space to retreat to.

🌧️ Weather-Proof Shelters
• For outdoor pets like rabbits or guinea pigs, ensure their enclosures are secure, weatherproof, and away from the wind. Cover hutches with waterproof, insulated covers to keep them warm and dry.

📢 Stay Alert
• Keep up to date with local weather reports and warnings.
• Avoid traveling with pets unless absolutely necessary during severe conditions.

Let’s keep our pets safe and happy until the winds pass! 🐕🐾 Share these tips to help other pet parents in your community. Stay safe! ❤️

21/01/2025

Celebrating Our Award Winners 🎉

A highlight of the Petpals annual conference was celebrating the incredible achievements of our franchisees through a series of well-deserved awards. These honours showcased the hard work, dedication, and passion our network brings to pet care every day. A huge congratulations to all our winners and runners-up!

🏆 Rising Star 2024
Charlotte Arnold, Petpals Sidcup
Charlotte’s remarkable drive and commitment have set her apart, becoming one of the fastest growing new starters in Petpals; making her a standout new addition to the Petpals family.

👏 Employee of the Year 2024
Cheryl Handy, employee of Petpals Sefton
Cheryl’s unwavering dedication and exceptional service have earned her this well-deserved recognition as Employee of the Year, showcasing the vital role our team members play in delivering outstanding pet care.

📱 Most Improved Social Media Award 2024
Kerry Richardson, Petpals Mansfield
Kerry’s engaging social media strategies have significantly enhanced her business’s online presence since she took over ownership last year, helping to connect with even more pet-loving clients.

💼 Most Productive Award 2024
Ray Hipwell, Petpals Chislehurst
Ray’s incredible productivity and efficiency in delivering top-tier services have made a lasting impact in his local community.

📈 Most Improved Performance 2023-24
Winner – Petpals Chichester
Runners-Up – Petpals York and Petpals Mansfield
Petpals (Chichester) demonstrated outstanding growth and innovation, followed by Petpals (York) and Petpals (Mansfield) who also showed remarkable progress over the last year.

🌟 Top Performing Franchise 2023-24
Winner – Petpals Darlington
Runners-Up – Petpals Chislehurst and Petpals Chelmsford, Maldon & Danbury
Petpals (Darlington & Yarm) achieved the highest turnover across the network, setting a benchmark for success. Petpals (Chislehurst) and Petpals (Chelmsford, Maldon & Danbury) also demonstrated impressive financial performance, showcasing the strength and potential of the Petpals franchise model.

We’re so proud of our award winners for their dedication to excellence and for inspiring the entire Petpals network.

Here’s to another year of success, innovation, and growth! 🐾

20/01/2025

🐾 Inspiring Growth & Success at Petpals! 🐾

This weekend, we came together for our annual Petpals conference, and it was truly inspiring! Franchisees united under the theme Inspiring Growth & Success to share knowledge, collaborate, and celebrate a successful year.

From expert speakers on dog law, animal behaviour, and pet first aid, to valuable insights shared by Petpals franchisees, the day was packed with learning and meaningful discussions. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible speakers who addressed some of the most critical topics in pet care:

• Berkeley Harris of Sandler Training, our host and keynote speaker, set an empowering tone with practical advice and motivational insights.

• Claire Arrowsmith, The Pet Behaviour Centre with Claire Arrowsmith CCAB, Clinical Animal Behaviourist, provided actionable strategies for recognising and managing challenging behaviours in cats and dogs.

• Trevor Cooper, Dog Law Solicitor at Doglaw Ltd: Doglaw SOS, broke down complex legal issues affecting the pet care industry.

• Sophie Bell, veterinary surgeon and owner of Animal Love Pet First Aid, shared crucial advice on pet health, emergency care, and groundbreaking advancements in pet medicine.

• Phil Till, owner of Petpals Basingstoke, delivered expert advice on growing small pet and cat care services while emphasising the importance of delivering exceptional customer service.

• David Gray, Petpals Brand Manager, highlighted recent legal changes impacting the pet care industry.

We also celebrated the incredible dedication and achievements of our franchisees with awards that recognised their exceptional efforts. Their passion and hard work inspire us all to continue raising the standard in pet care.

Here’s to a paws-perous 2025 filled with growth, collaboration, and success! 🐶🐱

17/01/2025

🐾 A Tail-Wagging Lead Into 2025🐾

We’re excited to share an insightful article from our Director, Kevin Thackrah, featured in Elite Franchise Magazine. In his piece, Kevin explores the growth and opportunities for Petpals as we head into 2025, highlighting how the pet care industry continues to thrive and why it’s such a rewarding franchise to be a part of.

Kevin's article delves into the importance of compassionate care, the growing demand for pet services, and the exciting future that lies ahead for Petpals.

Want to learn more about why 2025 is shaping up to be a tail-wagging year for us? Check out the full article here: https://elitefranchisemagazine.co.uk/franchise-diaries/item/a-tail-wagging-lead-into-2025

From inspiring community initiatives to prestigious award wins, franchisees have gone above and beyond to showcase what makes Petpals a leading name in pet care in the past year.

14/01/2025

🐾 January is Walk Your Dog Month! 🐾

Start the new year on the right paw by making daily walks a priority for your furry friend! 🐕❤️ Regular walks are vital for keeping dogs happy, healthy, and full of life. If you’re not always able to take your dog on a fulfilling adventure then Petpals can help with ensuring your pooch gets all the exercise, enrichment and socialisation they need.

🌟 Why regular walks are important:
✔️ Keeps your dog physically fit
✔️ Provides mental stimulation and reduces boredom
✔️ Helps with socialisation and reduces anxiety
✔️ Promotes better behaviour and overall health

💙 Let Petpals take the lead!
Can’t always fit a walk into your schedule? No worries! Petpals offers professional and loving dog-walking services tailored to your furry friend’s needs. Whether it’s a quick stroll or a long adventure, we’re here to ensure your dog gets the care and exercise they deserve.

📞 Contact us today to learn more about our services and let’s make every day paws-itively amazing for your pup! 🐾✨

10/01/2025

🐾 How Cold is Too Cold for Walking Your Dog? ❄️🐶

At Petpals, your pet’s safety and happiness are always our top priorities! With colder temperatures settling in, it’s important to know when it might be too cold for your furry friends to enjoy a walk outdoors. 🌡️🐾

❗ Petpals Service Updates:
Some of our Petpals locations may adjust dog walking schedules during extremely cold weather for your pet’s safety. Your local Petpals team will be in touch directly if there are any changes to your regular service.

🐕 The TACC Scales (Temperature, Activity, Coat, Condition):
Attached is a handy guide to help you determine if it’s safe to walk your dog in chilly weather.

1️⃣ Temperature:
Above 7°C (45°F): Safe for most dogs.
0–7°C (32–45°F): Small, short-haired, or elderly dogs may need extra care.
Below 0°C (32°F): Risk of frostbite or hypothermia increases. Short walks recommended.
Below -7°C (20°F): Limit outdoor time and use coats/booties for added warmth.

2️⃣ Activity Level:
Active dogs can tolerate the cold better but still watch for signs of discomfort.

3️⃣ Coat Type:
Thick-coated breeds (like Huskies) handle the cold better, while short-haired breeds may need extra layers.

4️⃣ Condition:
Young puppies, senior dogs, or pets with health issues are more sensitive to the cold. Adjust their time outdoors accordingly.

💡 Winter Walk Tips:
• Dress your pup in a cosy coat or sweater if needed.
• Protect their paws from ice and salt with booties or paw balm.
• Watch for signs of discomfort, like shivering or paw lifting.

Let’s work together to keep our four-legged friends safe, warm, and happy this winter! Share this post with fellow pet parents to help keep pooches safe.🐶❤️

02/01/2025

🎉 New Year, New Career! 🐾✨

Are you ready to make 2025 the year you take control of your future? If you love animals and dream of being your own boss, a Petpals franchise could be the perfect fit for you!

✅ Be Your Own Boss – Build a career you love, on your terms.
✅ Comprehensive Training & Support – We’re with you every step of the way.
✅ Low Start-Up Costs – Get started without breaking the bank.

Join the UK’s longest established pet care franchise and turn your passion into a rewarding business. Whether you're looking for a fresh start or a career change, Petpals gives you the tools and support you need to succeed.

🐾 Your future is waiting – take the first step today! Visit petpals.com/franchising to learn more about becoming a Petpals franchisee.

💼 Make 2025 your year to shine with Petpals!

31/12/2024

🎉🐾 Happy New Year from Petpals 🐾🎉

As we welcome 2025, we want to express our heartfelt thanks to all our clients and their pets! We look forward to another year of providing the very best care for your furry, feathery, and scaly friends! 🐾✨

Here’s to a new year filled with joy, laughter, and endless tail wags and purrs! May it bring health, happiness, and unforgettable moments for you and your pets. 🐾🎊

Cheers to 2025 and all the wonderful memories ahead!

With love,
All of us at Petpals 🐾❤️

#2025

31/12/2024

✨ Happy New Year's Eve from Petpals ✨

We hope you and your furry friends had a magical Christmas filled with love, joy, and plenty of fun! 🐾❤️ As we look ahead to the New Year, we want to thank all our wonderful clients for trusting us with your precious pets this past year.

Whether it was daily walks, cuddly visits, or holiday care, it’s been our privilege to keep your pets happy and healthy. 🐶🐱🐦🐰

Looking forward to 2025, we can’t wait to continue providing the same loving care and attention your pets deserve.

Here’s to another paw-some year together! 🥂🐕🐾

31/12/2024

🎆🐾 As we prepare to welcome the New Year, it's important to remember that while fireworks can be a source of celebration for us, they often cause significant stress for our pets. To ensure a peaceful transition into the new year for your furry companions, consider the following 10 tips:

1. Secure Your Home & Garden 🏡🔒: Fireworks can startle pets, causing them to bolt unexpectedly. Double-check that all doors, gates, and fences are secure to prevent escapes. If your pet needs to go outside, supervise them closely, and consider using barriers like baby gates indoors to create extra safety zones.

2. ID & Microchip 🆔🐶: Accurate identification is crucial if your pet gets lost. Make sure their ID tags are securely attached to their collar and display your current contact information. Additionally, confirm that your pet’s microchip details are up to date, as this provides a reliable way to reunite you if they wander off.

3. Walk Your Dog Early 🐕🌞: Ensure your dog gets ample exercise earlier in the day before fireworks commence. This reduces the need for outdoor trips during peak fireworks time and helps them relax in the evening.

4. Create a Cosy Indoor Space 🏠🛋️: Keep pets indoors during fireworks, closing curtains or blinds to block out flashes. Set up a safe, quiet area where they can retreat if they feel scared.

5. Bring Hutched Pets Indoors 🐇🏘️: For outdoor pets like rabbits or guinea pigs, consider moving them inside or to a sheltered location to shield them from noise and light. Covering their enclosures with blankets can further reduce disturbances.

6. Mask the Noise with Calming Sounds 🎶🐾: Playing soft music, such as classical or reggae, can help drown out the sound of fireworks and soothe your pet.

7. Use Gentle Massage Techniques 💆‍♀️🐕: Gently massaging your pet, especially around the ears, can activate calming points and help them feel more secure.

8. Stay Calm Yourself 🧘‍♂️💖: Pets are great at reading body language. Maintaining a calm demeanour and speaking in soothing tones can help reassure them during stressful times.

9. Respect Their Coping Style 🙈❤️: Every pet has a unique way of dealing with stress. Some may prefer to hide, while others seek comfort from you. Allow them to cope in their preferred way and be patient with their needs.

10. Consult Your Vet for Extra Help 🩺🐾: If your pet becomes extremely distressed, consult your veterinarian. They can recommend anti-anxiety medications or natural remedies like pheromone diffusers to help alleviate stress.

By implementing these strategies, you can help ensure a calmer and safer New Year's Eve for your pets. Wishing you and your furry friends a happy 🎉 and stress-free start to the New Year! 🐾💫

24/12/2024

🎄🎅 Merry Christmas from Petpals! 🎅🎄

As the festive season is upon us, we want to take a moment to thank all our amazing clients, furry friends, and dedicated franchisees and their team members for making 2024 such a fantastic year! 🐶🐱🐾

We’re so grateful to be part of your pets’ lives. 💖

We wish you and your loved ones a joyful Christmas filled with love, laughter, and plenty of tail wags and purrs! 🎁✨

Stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy the holiday magic!

With love,
All of us at Petpals 🐾❤️

23/12/2024

🎄🐾 The Pawfect Christmas Dinner for Your Pets!🐶🐱

This holiday season, let your furry friends join in the festive feast with a safe and nutritious Christmas dinner! Here’s a balanced, pet-friendly menu that will have dogs wagging their tails and cats purring with delight:

🍗 Plain Turkey (boneless & skinless): A lean protein source that supports muscle health and keeps your pet energised.

🥕 Carrots: Crunchy, sweet, and packed with vitamins A and C for healthy skin, coat, and vision.

🍠 Sweet Potato: A fibre-rich and antioxidant-loaded treat that supports digestion and overall health.

🌿 Green Beans: Low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals, perfect for maintaining a healthy weight.

🍵 Bone Broth (unsalted): A hydrating, nutrient-rich boost that aids joint health and digestion.

Important Tips:
❌ Avoid seasonings, onions, garlic and gravy.
✅ Serve in moderation based on your pet’s size and dietary needs.

This simple, wholesome feast will keep your pets happy, healthy, and feeling loved this Christmas! 🎅🐾

What’s on your pet’s holiday menu? Share your festive pet pics below! 📸👇

22/12/2024

🎄🐾 Holiday Treats for Your Pets! 🐾🎄
As we indulge in holiday feasts, let’s not forget about our furry friends! Here are some pet-friendly ideas to keep them safe and happy during Christmas:

🍗 Turkey (Plain, no bones or seasoning): A delicious treat for your dog or cat!

🍠 Sweet Potatoes: Packed with nutrients, they’re perfect for both cats and dogs—just make sure they’re plain!

🥕 Carrots & Green Beans: Low-calorie, crunchy, and healthy treats that pets love.

🎃 Pumpkin: A great way to support your pet’s digestive health (just make sure it's plain, canned pumpkin, not the spiced pie filling).

🍏 Apple slices: Sweet and crisp, but remember to remove the seeds and core!

❌ Things to Avoid: Keep your pets safe by avoiding foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, gravy, and anything with xylitol which are all toxic to pets.

⚠️🍫 If your dog has accidently consumed chocolate we advise you use this interactive Chocolate Toxicity Calculator. It really could save their life: https://dog-chocolate-calculator.vets-now.com

Let’s make this holiday season a joyous and safe one for our pets! 🐾❤️