Butcher’s Pet Care has reason to celebrate. 2017 marks the company’s thirtieth anniversary. The business has looked back at the major changes of the last three decades.
British family company, Butcher’s has a background in farming and as butchers. Robin Hone commented: “In the 1980’s when we launched our first canned dog food, the landscape was very different from some of the pampered pets we see today.
He continued: “As humans we are constantly revolutionising our diets – vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free, pescetarian – it’s ever-changing. Nevertheless, when it comes to our dogs, their genetic make-up is not equipped to deal with such changes.
“Dogs have a strong acidic stomach, which helps to break meat down and sharp teeth and strong jaws, which are designed for ripping and shredding meat. They are natural meat eaters and this is what they need for a healthy, balanced diet.”
Butcher’s values
Butcher’s core values have remined unchanged over the last three decades. Robin explains they are: “epitomised by our iconic ‘Fit as a Butcher’s Dog’ strapline.
“At the same time we have stayed at the cutting edge of innovation, constantly developing our recipes, and which has been helped by continual feedback from our customers.”
Humanisation
In a recent poll, carried out by Butcher’s Pet Care, 60 percent of dog owners surveyed admitted to giving their dog food they shouldn’t. Over a third mixed their dog’s food with other ingredients such as vegetables, cheese and gravy before serving.
The humanisation trend seems set to continue – one in five 25-34 year olds said they throw their dog a birthday party, with younger dog owners treating their pets more like members of the family than ever.
New product for 2017
Butcher’s keep producing new innovations that are true to its core ethos. Its latest product – The Butcher’s Choice Plastic tray, will be introduced to market in February 2017.
The range is made with British ingredients at Butcher’s home in the heart of Northamptonshire. It’s a new packaging format for Butcher’s, providing a single serve pack which offers a complete and balanced quality meal.
Meals include 60 percent single animal protein recipes; chicken or lamb along with potatoes and two vegetables, such as broccoli and carrots, which are gently steam cooked to preserve the natural qualities of the ingredients. They are grain free, and free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives.
