Tesco chain selling new Billy+Margot ice-cream for dogs, created by Taywell of Paddock Wood.

A unique new ice cream treat for dogs, created by pioneering local firm Taywell, is soon to be sold in Dobbies, the garden-centre chain owned by supermarket giant Tesco.

Billy+Margot™ is to be sold in 27 Dobbies outlets across the UK from late March. 

The brand will be unveiled to the public for the first time on 8th March at the world's most famous dog show, Crufts.

Billy+Margot™, which is being made by Taywell at its kitchen in Paddock Wood, Kent, is available in two flavour varieties: Strawberry+Apple and Apple+Banana+Carrot. It contains no milk, which can be harmful to dogs, and the sugars in the product come only from the fructose found naturally in the fruit and vegetable ingredients that flavour the ice cream.

Billy+Margot™ was developed by nutritionist and dog lover Marie Sawle (pictured), who was inspired to create the concept after spotting a gap in the market for a refreshing but nutritious iced canine treat for hot days.

"Many dog owners know that giving a cooling drink to a dog in very hot weather helps them a lot, so why not give them a reward after a walk or exercise with a nutritious iced treat?" she said.

Billy+Margot™ is being targeted at a wide range of retailers, including specialist pet stores and garden centres. Alastair Jessel, managing director of Taywell, said: "We're delighted to be working with Marie to make Billy+Margot™ iced treats for dogs.

Although a typical first reaction to Billy+Margot™ might be to chuckle, in fact

we see this as a very serious business opportunity for retailers of all kinds.

The brand is already gaining listings fast and we have very high hopes for it."

Alastair added: "Giving your much-loved pet a well-deserved treat is one of life's pleasures, and in the case of Billy+Margot™ you'll be giving them something wholesome and nutritious as well as delicious."

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