18 Nov It’s a Dogs Dinner!
Dogs have long been referred to as ‘man’s best friend’ – and for many people during lockdown they have also been a lifeline. Playmate, running partner, couch-cuddler and companion – they fulfil many wants and needs and their impact on our mental wellbeing is huge. The therapeutic value of our relationship with our pets, particularly dogs, is widely recognised with our canine chums triggering similar neural pathways to the parent-baby bond. In short, dogs are great therapy, and as a nation of animal lovers it’s little surprise that 26% of the UK population have a dog (PDSA) and the numbers are rising.
And, understandably, we like to pamper our pooches and over the years a number of brilliant pet brands have been recognised by Product of the Year for their stand-out, innovative products.
Harringtons has taken a walk down the Product of the Year red carpet twice: winning last year for its limited ingredient dog food, Just 6, and in 2019 for its healthy grain-free wet food made with 100% natural ingredients. The aptly named Wagg brand also picked up an award in 2019 – winning Best Dog Treat product for its Peanut Butter Cookies and in 2018 Mars Petcare’s Perfect Fit advanced nutrition brand took the Best Dog Food title.
So who will lead the pack this year and walk away with a coveted Product of the Year 2021 trophy – winning the right to feature the iconic red logo?
Sustainability remains an important issue for many pet owners and a number of brands are addressing the issue including Mars Petcare who have teamed up with TerraCycle – a free recycling programme for empty pouches and other flexible plastic dry food and treat packaging. Plant based pet foods have also gained momentum with organic, vegan products from Yarrah, Benevo and Green Pet leading the charge.
Other product launches that have also stood out for all the right reasons this year include: Applaws Natural Pet Food’s Taste Tippers; Royal Canin’s Vital Support; Pet Choice’s Webbox Naturals range; Natures Menu Complete Working Dog meals range; Mars Petcare’s Pedigree Dentastix Chew Chunx and the hugely popular Paul O’Grady’s has introduced a puppy food to its No Nasties range. And it doesn’t stop there! get your pooch in the seasonal spirit and treat your furry friend to an animal friendly Christmas with none other than Lily’s Kitchen.
A dog’s dinner to be proud of.