Small-Dog Nutrition Line Launches
Purely Golden Foods has launched a pet nutrition brand built specifically for small-breed dogs. The company formulates exclusively for dogs under 20 pounds, whose faster metabolic rates and narrower nutritional margins differ from larger breeds. Its first product is supported by a controlled 8-week Cornell University feeding study measuring inflammatory biomarkers and microbiome composition. The subscription-based service starts at approximately $20 per day. Initial enrollment is limited to a founding cohort, with waitlist access now open.
Heartland Veterinary Partners Announces New CEO
Heartland Veterinary Partners, owner of nearly 350 practices across 32 states, has announced the appointment of Connor Lawrie as the organization’s new chief executive officer. Lawrie served as Heartland’s chief operating officer for nearly 10 years and as president and COO for the last three years. Heartland is backed by the middle-market private investment firm Gryphon Investors.
Fish Oil Alternative to Debut at Petfood Forum 2026
DSM-Firmenich will unveil Veramaris O3 Max Pure at Petfood Form 2026 later this month in Kansas City. The product is being billed as the first microalgal oil to replicate fish oil’s natural 3:2 EPA:DHA omega-3 ratio. Produced through closed-system microalgae fermentation, the non-GMO ingredient offers pet food manufacturers a contaminant-free, sustainably sourced alternative with consistent supply and stable pricing.
Study Reveals After-Hours Veterinary Shortage
A PetOS Directory analysis of 863 emergency veterinary hospitals across 82 U.S. metropolitan areas found gaps in after-hours pet care access. Eight cities — Clearwater, Florida; Savannah, Georgia; Cleveland, Ohio; St. Paul, Minnesota; Overland Park, Kansas; Richmond, Virginia; Missoula, Montana; and Lexington, Kentucky — have only one emergency vet option. Seven cities — Las Vegas, Nevada; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Indianapolis, Indiana; Jackson, Mississippi; New Orleans, Louisiana; Stamford, Connecticut; and Grand Rapids, Michigan — have only two emergency veterinary hospitals. Cities with the strongest emergency coverage include Queens, New York; Mesa, Arizona; and El Paso, Texas — each with more than 20 emergency veterinary hospitals. Access the data on the PetOS website.
Sundays for Dogs Agrees to NAD Recommendations
The BBB National Programs’ National Advertising Division, responding to a challenge by The Farmer’s Dog, recommended Sundays for Dogs discontinue or modify several advertising claims. NAD flagged assertions of superior nutrient retention over other cooking methods, “Made in USA” labeling, and a “world’s healthiest” superlative. Sundays for Dogs’ use of whole-ingredient imagery was also found to be potentially misleading. Sundays for Dogs agreed to comply with NAD’s recommendations.
Trupanion Opens Nominations for Veterinary Appreciation Awards
Pet insurer Trupanion has announced the opening of Veterinary Appreciation Day Awards nominations. Award categories for 2026 include “Veterinarian of the Year,” “Veterinary Professional of the Year,” and “Veterinary Team of the Year.” Nominations are open until May 7.
Report Reveals Continued Veterinary Revenue Growth
Veterinary practices grew revenue by 2.6% in 2025 even as transaction volume dropped by 4.7%, according to iVET360’s 2026 Veterinary Industry Benchmark Report. A 7.5% rise in average transaction charge — driven by stronger diagnostic utilization and a shift toward higher-value medical services — offset declining visit frequency. Sick and urgent visits climbed to nearly 37% of total exams, suggesting pet owners are deferring routine care. The full report can be found on the iVET360 website.
Gallant Reports Positive Pilot Data for Feline OA Stem Cell Therapy
Gallant announced positive results from a pilot study of IV stem cell therapy for cats with osteoarthritis, with 76% of treated cats showing improved quality of life versus 36% in the placebo group at 90 days. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Veterinary Medicine also granted the therapy eligibility for an expanded conditional approval pathway. OA affects 90% of older cats, and current treatments address only symptoms. A one-year continuation study is ongoing.