Zoetis Appoints President of U.S. Operations
Ester Banque was named executive vice president and president of U.S. Operations at Zoetis Inc. She will report to CEO Kristin Peck, who said, “We were impressed by Ester’s diverse, global experience, leadership of high-performing teams and above-market growth achievements.” Banque most recently was the senior vice president and general manager of Bristol Myers Squibb’s U.S. Hematology and Cell Therapy Business.
ACVO Provides Over 5,200 Free Eye Exams
The annual National Service Animal Eye Exam Event, organized by the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists, resulted in more than 5,250 free eye exams. “Over 270 ACVO diplomates in approximately 200 cities in the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and Hong Kong donated their time and resources,” the organization reported. Epicur Pharma sponsored the event.
Hill’s Updates Sensitive Stomach & Skin Recipes
New formulas of Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin include MSC-certified Alaskan pollock and, in canine recipes, insect protein. The manufacturer, Hill’s Pet Nutrition, didn’t identify the insect source but said the protein “is raised in North America and offers a great source of fiber and beneficial nutrients.” The wild-caught Alaskan pollock comes from a Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified fishery.
Dutch Assists Embrace Policyholders
Veterinary telehealth provider Dutch formed an alliance with Embrace Pet Insurance. “The new partnership allows Embrace customers to connect directly with Dutch veterinarians when they reach out to PawSupport, Embrace’s exclusive pet telemed partner,” Dutch reported.
Wanted in Colorado: Veterinarians
According to an analysis by canine supplement manufacturer PetLab Co., veterinarians are in the greatest demand in Colorado. The study examined Google searches for the 10 most common search terms related to animal hospitals and veterinary care, PetLab reported. “They then looked at the number of monthly searches in each state and compared it to population size in order to determine how many searches were made per 100,000 residents,” the company added. Michigan and West Virginia ranked second and third, respectively. Details are at bit.ly/43hOXG6.
New From Purina: Joint Care Supplements
Purina Pro Plan introduced Joint Care soft chew supplements for dogs. The ingredients include collagen, hyaluronic acid, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to help maintain healthy cartilage and joints as well as omega-3 fatty acids. Joint Care is available in 2.5-gram chews and 5-gram chews, both in 30-count pouches.
Pawlicy Advisor Hires Full-Time CMO
The pet insurance comparison website Pawlicy Advisor hired veterinarian Dr. Ricky Walther as its chief medical officer, a full-time position. The appointment will help Pawlicy Advisor “deepen our understanding on how to best serve pet owners and veterinary practices and the most impactful ways to educate the community,” CEO and co-founder Woody Mawhinney said.
WSAVA Researches African Vaccination Needs
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association’s Vaccination Guidelines Group launched a four-year project focused on sub-Saharan Africa. The task force will review “the prevalence of infectious diseases and current vaccination practice, together with commercial and regulatory challenges and veterinary education in the region,” WSAVA stated. “In the final year of the project in 2026, based on the knowledge they have gained, they will produce their Regional Vaccination Guidelines.”
GenSol Customers Can Order Specific Tests
The canine genetic testing company GenSol Diagnostics introduced Breed-Specific Customizable Panels. The products are “completely personalized, allowing breeders, veterinarians and companion pet owners to easily test one, or multiple, genetic disorders all in one panel,” according to GenSol. The company is based in Clayton, Georgia.