Petpals UK Ltd

25/03/2025

🌿 Protect Your Pets from Ticks! 🐶🐱

📢 It's Tick Bite Prevention Week! 📢 Now is the perfect time to learn how to keep your pets safe from these pesky parasites.

Ticks are more than just a nuisance - they can carry harmful bacteria that cause Lyme disease and other serious illnesses. While not all ticks are infected, prevention is key! 🚫🦠

🕑 When Are Ticks Most Active?
➡️ Spring to early summer (March-June)
➡️ Late summer through autumn (August-November)

📍 Where Are Ticks Commonly Found?
🌳 Grassy & wooded areas across the UK, including Exmoor, The New Forest, The Lake District, and the Scottish Highlands.

✅ How to Protect Your Pets:
✔️ Consult your vet for the right tick prevention treatment
✔️ Use oral medications, spot-on treatments, sprays, or anti-tick collars
✔️ Check your pet’s fur regularly - especially ears, eyes, and between the toes!
✔️ Remove ticks safely using a tick-removal tool

If you suspect Lyme disease, seek veterinary care immediately. Let’s keep our furry friends safe this tick season! ❤️🐾

23/03/2025

🐾 Happy National Puppy Day! 🐾

Today, we’re celebrating all the adorable, tail-wagging, mischief-making pups that bring so much joy into our lives! 🐶❤️

Make no bones 🦴 about it – getting a puppy is a big commitment! Puppies need consistent training, socialisation, and plenty of time and attention to help them grow into happy, well-adjusted dogs.

From regular walks and playtime to house training and obedience lessons, raising a puppy is a big responsibility that takes patience and dedication.

🌟 Puppy Care Tips:

✔️ Socialisation is key – Introduce your pup to new sights, sounds, and experiences early to help them grow into a confident, well-rounded dog.

✔️ Consistent training – Use positive reinforcement to teach basic commands like sit, stay, and recall.

✔️ Healthy routines – Puppies need regular feeding times, plenty of play, and lots of naps to support their growth.

✔️ Chew wisely – Provide safe chew toys to soothe their teething gums (and protect your shoes!).

🐾 Need a helping paw with your puppy?

At Petpals, we offer puppy visit services to help support you during those early stages. Whether you’re at work or simply need an extra hand, we’ll pop in to:

🐕 Provide playtime and gentle socialisation
🥣 Offer food and water
🚽 Let them outside for a toilet break, cleaning up any little accidents
💙 Give plenty of cuddles and care
📸 Send photos and updates of your pup!

📲 Get in touch today to find out how we can help your pup grow into a happy, well-adjusted dog! 🐾

Visit: www.petpals.com

19/03/2025

📢 Find us featured in the Spring issue of Franchise World Magazine!

😺🐶 The Franchise Pack Mentality: How franchisees thrive through collaboration.
Discover how working together helps us deliver the best care for pets and grow stronger as a network.

👉 Read the full article here: https://issuu.com/nickriding63/docs/franchise_world_spring_2025/24

The latest magazine features franchise opportunities reporting expanding networks. Plus, guidance from franchisors and advisors in the franchise sector.

18/03/2025

Kevin Thackrah, Director at Petpals, explores how the qualities of our furry companions mirror the key traits every franchisee needs to thrive

14/03/2025

✨ What a fantastic night at the EF100 awards ceremony! ✨

Last night, Petpals had the incredible honour of attending the EF100 Awards Ceremony in London, celebrating the best in UK franchising. 🌟 It was an inspiring evening, surrounded by industry leaders, innovators, and passionate entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of franchising.

A huge thank you to Elite Franchise for hosting an exceptional event and for presenting us with our Top 100 Franchises award. Here's to growing, innovating, and making a pawsitive impact together! 🎉🐶🐾

13/03/2025

🚀 Unlock the Potential of Home-Based Franchising with Petpals! 🏠

Home-based franchises offer a unique blend of low overheads and high growth potential, making them an attractive option for aspiring entrepreneurs.

At Petpals, our franchisees enjoy the flexibility of operating from their home and van, meaning reduced startup costs, and the rewarding experience of working with pets daily.

If you're passionate about animals and seeking a business venture that aligns with a flexible lifestyle, a home & van based franchise with Petpals could be the perfect fit!

🔗 Read more in the BFA: http://www.thebfa.org/expert-advice-zone/low-overheads-big-potential-why-a-home-based-franchise-makes-sense-five-years-on-from-lockdown

While we don’t like to talk about the pandemic much these days, there’s no denying that it changed the way we work – possibly forever. Five years on, the work-from-home mindset is here to stay – and for good reason. More people have discovered the benefits of flexibility, reduced commuting a...

08/03/2025

🌟 Happy International Women's Day! 🌟

Today, we’re celebrating the incredible women in the Petpals network – our dedicated franchise owners who lead with passion, care, and commitment every single day. 💙🐾

From providing top-quality pet care to running successful businesses, these women inspire us with their hard work, resilience, and love for animals. Their dedication not only makes a difference to the pets and owners they support but also to their local communities.

To all the amazing women in our Petpals family – and beyond – we appreciate you today and every day! 💐✨

01/03/2025

🌼 Happy St. David’s Day from Petpals! 🌼

Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus to all our wonderful Welsh clients and their pets! 🐾

🎉 Today, we celebrate all things Welsh - whether it’s daffodils blooming, delicious leeks in your dinner, or the sight of playful lambs in the fields.

And, of course, we can’t forget the iconic Welsh Corgis! 🐶 If your four-legged friend is joining in the celebrations, we’d love to see your photos - whether they’re posing with a daffodil, sporting a Welsh bandana, or just enjoying a festive treat.

Wishing you and your pets a pawsome St David’s Day! 🏴💛

28/02/2025

🐾 The Franchise Pack Mentality 🐾

Running a business can sometimes feel isolating - but when you're part of a franchise, you're part of a family. 💙

In the latest BFA Magazine, our Director, Kevin Thackrah, shares his insights on how collaboration, shared learning, and the strength of the franchise network help Petpals franchisees thrive. 🚀🐶

📖 Read the full feature here: https://www.thebfa.org/the-bfa-magazine/ -magazine-volume-1-2025/114/

25/02/2025

🌍🐾Today is World Spay Day, a reminder of the importance of spaying and neutering our beloved pets.
Whether they roam free or stay indoors, this simple procedure can have lifelong benefits!

🐱 Cats – Did you know that an unspayed female cat can have up to 18 kittens a year? Cats love to roam, and even indoor cats may find their way outside unexpectedly. Spaying prevents unwanted litters, reduces the risk of certain cancers, and helps keep the stray cat population under control. If your cat stays indoors, spaying still offers health benefits and prevents behaviour linked to being in heat.

🐶 Dogs – When it comes to spaying and neutering, one size does not fit all. The best time for the procedure depends on your dog's breed, size, and health risks. Studies show that for some large breeds, early spaying can affect bone and joint development, while for others, waiting too long can increase cancer risks. Timing is key in dogs and bi***es, if done too soon or during a phantom pregnancy, they can develop irreversible behavioural issues. There are various options available to 'test' a dog's behaviour with what's known as a chemical castration or chemical spaying, where you can assess your dog's behaviour and response before a permanent procedure takes place. Consulting your vet is key to making the right choice for you and your dog.

🐰 Rabbits & Small Pets – Spaying isn’t just for cats and dogs! Rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small animals benefit too. Spayed female rabbits are far less likely to develop uterine cancer, which is sadly common in unspayed bunnies. Plus, neutering can help reduce aggressive or territorial behaviour.

💙 Spaying and neutering can saves lives – it prevents unwanted litters, can improve health, and can make for calmer, happier pets. Speak to your vet about the best options for your pet’s breed and lifestyle.

For further research on guidelines for assisting with age and breed related neutering decisions across 35 dog breeds, check out Frontiers in Veterinary Research article: https://www.readcube.com/articles/10.3389/fvets.2020.00388

Always consult your vet for all spaying and neutering decisions.

Have questions or want to share your experience? Drop a comment below! 👇

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! 🐾