Animal Health News and Notes · October 2, 2026
Editor: Christine Merle DVM, MBA, CVPM
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US Company News
- Neogen received an FDA warning letter related to HYCOAT® Hyaluronate Sodium Sterile Solution following an investigation into fungal contamination associated with serious joint infections in approximately 100 horses, at least 20 of which were euthanized after treatment failed. FDA cited concerns including misbranding and insanitary manufacturing conditions. Neogen voluntarily recalled all unexpired lots of HYCOAT in January. (FDA)
- BiomEdit received conditional licensure from USDA’s Center for Veterinary Biologics for CPerf LLV, formerly BE-101, an engineered bacterial biologic designed to reduce mortality associated with necrotic enteritis in broiler chickens. BiomEdit has initiated commercial evaluation programs with three major U.S. poultry producers, with the product expected to be deployed in more than 35 million broilers. (Company Press Release)
- Fetch Pet Insurance launched Fetch Online Vet, a virtual veterinary care service powered by Vetster and available to Fetch members through the company’s app at no additional cost. Members receive four video appointments with Vetster veterinarians annually and unlimited chats with veterinary professionals for services including minor health concerns, teletriage, prescription refills, nutrition and behavior questions. (Today’s Veterinary Business)
- CareCredit and Vetspire announced a partnership integrating CareCredit financing into Vetspire’s AI-enabled veterinary practice management platform. The integration will allow veterinary practices to offer financing options within their existing clinical and checkout workflows, with the companies saying the partnership is designed to reduce administrative steps, streamline payments and improve access to care for pet owners. (PR Newswire)
- Merck Animal Health presented 58 studies at the World Buiatrics Congress highlighting research across neonatal calf health, respiratory disease, infectious diseases, parasitology, herd management and livestock monitoring. Research included new data examining maternal vaccination against Cryptosporidium parvum and its potential role in supporting neonatal calf health. (Company Press Release)
- GoodVets acquired WellHaven Pet Health, a network of more than 40 veterinary hospitals across seven states. The acquisition expands GoodVets’ network from 75 to 116 hospitals and significantly increases its presence in the Pacific Northwest and Midwest. WellHaven locations will transition to the GoodVets brand over time. Financial terms were not disclosed. (Today’s Veterinary Business)
- First Priority Inc. received FDA approval for Moxidectin Oral Drench for Sheep, a generic antiparasitic used for the treatment and control of internal parasites in sheep. The over-the-counter product contains moxidectin and is a generic version of Cydectin Oral Drench for Sheep. (DVM360)
- Mars has launched a new Adoption Hub offering expert-backed resources to help prospective and new pet owners navigate pet adoption. The initiative follows Mars research involving more than 26,000 people across 14 countries, which found concerns about pets’ medical histories, behavior and household compatibility among barriers to adoption. The hub also provides nutritional guidance and will support the 2026 Mars Global Adoption Weekend. (Company Press Release)
- Merck Animal Health expanded its SenseHub Dairy monitoring technology with new capabilities for bucket-fed, preweaned calves and the launch of SenseHub Insights, a herd-management dashboard. The expanded SenseHub Dairy Youngstock system provides 24/7 behavioral monitoring for bottle- and bucket-fed calves, while SenseHub Insights allows dairy producers to track herd-level health and management trends using existing SenseHub Dairy data.(Company Press Release)
- Parasight System Inc. has been named a preferred veterinary diagnostic provider for the Independent Animal Hospital Association (IAHA). The partnership will provide IAHA member practices with access to Parasight’s in-clinic diagnostic solutions and special pricing. Parasight’s Complete Lab System includes fecal testing, hematology, chemistry, immunoassay and urinalysis solutions. (Today’s Veterinary Business)
- United Petfood has agreed to acquire a dry pet food production facility in Decatur, Arkansas, from Wellness Pet Company. The facility will become United Petfood’s third North American production site; the companies also entered into a long-term supply agreement. (com)
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Brakke Consulting News
Upcoming Syndicated Studies
Trone Research and Consulting (TRC), in collaboration with Brakke Consulting, is pleased to announce two upcoming syndicated studies focused on Pain Management and Dermatology.Across the animal health industry, companies face common research challenges. But the cost of custom studies can quickly add up. TRC’s syndicated approach delivers shared insight at exceptional value. Designed specifically for the animal health industry, these studies will provide a comprehensive view of two important and rapidly evolving markets.
Each study combines insights from 400 U.S. veterinarians and 700 pet owners, connecting the clinical perspective with the real-world experiences of pet owners. This approach helps uncover where veterinarian and pet owner perspectives align and where they differ. The studies also aim to identify treatment behaviors, unmet needs, compliance challenges, and opportunities for future innovation.
The Pain Management Study, publishing in January 2027, will examine the changing osteoarthritis treatment landscape, including current treatment protocols, clinical decision-making, satisfaction, compliance, and openness to emerging therapies.
The Dermatology Study, publishing in April 2027, will explore the diagnostic journey, current treatment and brand dynamics, the pet owner experience, compliance and receptivity to future innovations.
Each report is $19,500 and includes a one-hour meeting with TRC to discuss findings and implications. Studies may be purchased individually or bundled together for $38,000—a savings of $1000.
Early-order discounts are also available. Orders for the studies placed by October 5th receive $1,000 off a single study ($18,500), $2,000 off the bundle ($36,000), or $500 off a single-audience version ($12,000), provided a PO is issued, or payment is received within 30 days of the order date.
Contact Doug Barton a dbarton@troneresearch.com to place an order or to learn more about these studies.
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International Company News
- GB – Zoetis has launched Lenivia® (izenivetmab injection) in Great Britain, a long-acting monoclonal antibody therapy for alleviating osteoarthritis pain in dogs. A single injection provides pain alleviation for up to three months. (Company Press Release)
- India – Zenex Animal Health acquired SAVA Healthcare’s companion animal business, SAVAVET, expanding its presence in India’s growing pet healthcare market. The acquisition adds approximately 70 brands across parasiticides, antibiotics, cardiac care, pain management, dermatology and wellness, along with a distribution network of approximately 165 stockists and relationships with more than 6,000 veterinarians. Financial terms were not disclosed. (Company Press Release)
- EU – The Council of the European Union agreed on its negotiating position on measures to simplify food and feed safety requirements. Proposed changes affecting feed additives include eliminating systematic renewal requirements for most authorized additives, streamlining modifications to existing authorizations and allowing digital labeling for certain information. The broader package also addresses animal health and welfare, official controls, biocides and genetically modified food and feed. (Council of the EU)
- The UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has finalized reforms for the veterinary sector following its investigation into the pet healthcare market. Veterinary businesses will have 12 months to implement most changes, including greater transparency around pricing, ownership and treatment options. The reforms also address prescription fees, access to prescriptions and consumer choice, with the goal of making it easier for pet owners to compare veterinary services and costs. (UK)
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Brakke Search
- We’re hiring! Our client is a leading marketer of pet wellness plans to veterinary hospitals, seeking a “hunter” sales lead in/around Atlanta. You’ll be working with a CRM and lead generation to enroll hospitals in their custom plans. Experience selling services to veterinary hospitals a must. Some personnel management also required. An established company planning to grow its US business, the company offers a competitive compensation package. For more information including the job description, compensation, etc. contact Jeff Santosuosso at jeff@brakkeconsulting.com to learn more.
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Animal Health Industry News
- US – Two cases of rabies have been confirmed in a New York beef herd after three adult Angus cattle developed severe acute neurologic signs and died over a three-week period. Cornell is reminding veterinarians and producers to consider rabies in cattle presenting with acute neurologic disease and to use appropriate precautions when handling suspect animals. (Cornell University)
- US – Maryland veterinary cannabis law: A Maryland law taking effect October 1 will allow veterinarians to discuss cannabis products with clients for animal use under specified conditions. VIN highlighted the change Sept. 23. This could be worth a short regulatory/practice item, particularly because it takes effect this week.(VIN News)
- US – Virulent Newcastle disease virus (vNDV) was confirmed in a double-crested cormorant in New York. Testing by Cornell University’s Animal Health Diagnostic Center and USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories confirmed the highly pathogenic strain. Wild birds can contribute to the spread of vNDV to domestic poultry through shared environments, feed and water. (Cornell University)
- US – Virginia Tech plans a $63 million renovation and expansion of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. The project will add surgical suites and expand capacity for internal medicine, cardiology, theriogenology, community practice and emergency services. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2027, with the hospital remaining operational throughout the project. (Virginia Tech)
- S. Rep. Shontel Brown (D-OH) has introduced the Veterinary Expansion and Training for Comprehensive Animal Resources and Education (VET CARE) Act to address veterinary workforce shortages. The legislation would authorize USDA grants for schools, 4-H and FFA organizations, veterinary practices, and animal health organizations to develop or expand work-based learning programs for high school students interested in veterinary medicine. USDA identified veterinary shortages in 46 states in 2025. (shontelbrown.house.gov)
- US – The Association for Veterinary Informatics presented Paul Pion, DVM, cofounder of the Veterinary Information Network (VIN), with the 2026 Allen W. Hahn Lifetime Achievement in Veterinary Informatics Award. The award recognizes Pion’s contributions to advancing veterinary informatics and the use of technology and information resources within veterinary medicine. (Association for Veterinary Informatics)
- US – Research funded by USPOULTRY and the USPOULTRY Foundation identified a new approach that could improve the production and delivery of recombinant herpesvirus of turkey (rHVT) vaccines. Researchers at North Carolina State University found that a novel culture medium increased vaccine titers fivefold, improved infectivity by 300% and reduced dose variability by half while maintaining safety and protective efficacy. (USPOULTRY)
- UK – Bluetongue cases continue to rise across Great Britain, with 62 new cases confirmed in England and 33 BTV-3 cases in Wales on September 27. More than 1,100 potential cases were under investigation as of September 28. (DEFRA/APHA)
- UK – The Animal and Plant Health Agency has confirmed Shamonda virus in cattle in Jersey, marking its presence in the British Isles. The midge-borne virus, which is related to Schmallenberg virus, can cause fever, diarrhea, lethargy, reduced milk production and abortions in cattle. (APHA)
- UK – Years, a fresh dog food company that voluntarily recalled most of its meals in August following reports of sudden bilateral dry eye in dogs, said independent testing found no contamination or toxins in its products. The company plans to resume deliveries in October without buckwheat as a precaution. Meanwhile, an independent veterinary investigation has received more than 200 reports of the condition, with no causal relationship established with a specific food, ingredient or manufacturer. (dvm360)
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Brakke Consulting Viewpoint
Great Resignation, Great Stay. Now Great Pause. What in the world?
Candidates are stepping away from the job market altogether. Zogby’s recent survey of over 1500 US adults for Employ* confirms media reports that not only is it taking longer for candidates to secure a job, but it’s also getting harder. 2025’s results show that 41% indicated securing a job would take 1-3 months, with 30% responding 4-6 months. We’ve slipped. This year, the 1-3-month percentage dropped to 37%, while the 4-6-month tally was 33%. Those estimating 7-9 months rose from 7% to 9%.
It gets gloomier. In 2025, 44% said getting a job was “Somewhat” or “Very” easy,” with 55% indicating “Somewhat” to “Very” difficult. This year’s tallies: 35%, and 64%, respectively.
So now what? Employ suggests employers take actions to stem that discouraging tide:
- Be specific about stability, growth, and team culture
- Reduce uncertainty; clarify timelines and expectations
- Move faster, share conclusive decisions and actions
- Target well-qualified candidates vs a shotgun approach
- Look inward; cultivate your team
Amazing how quickly things changed from candidate-friendly to candidate-unfriendly. Plenty of fine candidates seek new roles. A clear, streamlined approach stands out. Brakke can help.
Jeff Santosuosso
Senior Consultant
* 2026 Job Seeker Nation Report, Employ
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Your View
Last week, we asked if you feed your dog a premium, fresh, or organic food. 58% answered yes, with 42% answering no. (Do treats and scraps count?)
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