Trips to the farmers’ market where you can buy ethically produced, healthy, local produce, which has low food miles, was one of the things that inspired Hermione Perry to set up her own animal feed company.
“Devon is already renowned in the food industry for the huge array of locally produced, quality and speciality foods for humans, so we felt it was about time our animals also benefited from this,” said Hermione, who worked in equine supplements for industry leaders for 19 years. She set up the online Little Feed Company and now supplies a range of feed products for horses, dogs, and chickens, which is in recyclable, sustainable packaging and made only with natural ingredients.
“I am in a unique position — scientifically qualified with huge commercial experience but with first-hand experience of the joys and trials of owning animals. Like any owner, I have had my fair share of vet bills and experience of laminitis, sweet itch, box rest, azoturia and so on. You name it, and one of my horses has probably had it.
“I want to focus on the fundamental aspects of animal ownership — providing our horses, pets, and animals with top-quality, natural nutrition, helping them to regain some balance and lead a happy, healthy life in a world which is far different from the one they evolved for. My customer base is growing every month.”
While Hermione’s business is still small, there are signs major feed companies are evolving their businesses to become more sustainable, too.
“Owners want to do the best for their horses, and I am beginning to see sustainability coming into that equation when I advise people,” explains independent equine nutritionist Donna Case. “There are lots of things to consider around how feed is produced, particularly if you are competing under rules, so it pays to do your research and take advice.
Denne historien er fra January 16, 2020-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
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Denne historien er fra January 16, 2020-utgaven av Horse & Hound.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
Better judges' cover a must to protect the sport's future
A group insurance option has been found to protect the officials showing needs but only if enough sign up
IVF with frozen sperm is a 'milestone' in equine breeding
The first successful use of frozen semen in the technique has been recorded in an American study
Challenging ourselves to be and do better for our horses
The 2024 FEI general assembly heard how we should all challenge ourselves to give horses the best lives possible
Scottish jockeys to benefit from fund's top services
A new centre in Galashiels has been built thanks to a legacy donation
How horse simulators could help encourage people into riding
It is hoped the new model will help break down barriers to the sector for a wide range of people
Many horses' needs aren't met: study finds chance to improve
Researchers say all must ensure horses have space, friends, forage and good experiences
Humble pie
How many ladies does it take to cook a shepherd's pie? It’s a complicated one, says Tessa Waugh, on a quest to find appropriate ovens for the impending hunt auction dinner
I love an underdog
The arrival of the winter mud brings with it a Venetia Williams hat-trick, but the day belongs to a warrior gelding, who never stops trying”
Jumping Jack cracks it
A scopey grey is learning to be quick” anda broodmare makes up for lost time
A star is born
A nine-year-old mare helps put Luxembourg on the map and we celebrate a remarkable grey’s comeback
