Our Story
Trisha Heath, Founder
Working as a professional dog groomer for over 10 years, I have seen the whole spectrum of skin issues in pets, and was inspired to study canine dermatology. I became the first dog groomer in the UK to achieve the highest level international certification of dermatological grooming and natural cosmetology.
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As I scrutinised the compositions of pet shampoos and cosmetics, I found the amount of harsh chemicals in these products shocking. Many commonly-used ingredients are so toxic and harmful to life and the environment that they are banned in human cosmetics. But due to a lack of regulations and standards for animal products, these chemicals are still allowed in pet shampoos, conditioners and skincare products. They’re potentially harming pets inside and out, the pet parents and groomers who apply them, and aquatic life when the “grey water” goes down the drain.
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Skin is the largest organ of the body and by providing a barrier, it serves as one of the body’s first lines of defence against harmful pathogens. Chemically-based pet shampoos promise spectacular results in a single wash, yet can strip away a layer of skin along with the dirt and grease. I believe this only adds to the common dermatological problems seen in dogs, compounding other factors such as poor diet and lifestyle.
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All this started me on my journey to create pet products that are safe for pets, humans and the environment. So together with my husband, Dafydd – a professional horticulturalist with a wealth of knowledge about plants and their properties, and a passion for biodiversity – I founded Berries & Leaves.
Our Commitment to Sustainability
We combine our knowledge of traditional raw materials of natural origin with scientific evidence that supports the tolerability and effectiveness of the various plant extracts and oils we use, so none of our formulations need to be tested on animals.
We are acutely aware of our carbon footprint and impact on the planet. As many of our ingredients as possible are grown organically here at Berries & Leaves HQ or sustainably sourced in the UK.
We also have a zero waste policy – our packaging is either made from recycled material, sustainably sourced biodegradable products, or 100% recyclable.