The Key Ingredients for Winning Large-Scale Animal Health Projects & Building Long-Term Success

Securing large-scale projects in any industry is never a solo effort—it’s a team sport. As the saying goes, “Success has many fathers, but failure is an orphan.” This rings especially true when the stakes are high. To win big, it takes collaboration across various conditions and stakeholders: state and local leadership, a pro-business environment, supportive communities, utility partners, a dynamic innovation ecosystem, and a highly skilled workforce.

While measurable business incentives—such as tax breaks, infrastructure support, and access to capital—are often top of mind when companies evaluate location options, it’s the intangible factors that make all the difference for long-term success. These are the elements that can’t easily be quantified but are critical to ensuring a project’s sustainability and growth over time.

One of the most significant intangibles is how well a project aligns with the region’s economic development strategy. A successful project isn’t about financial incentives alone. It’s about how it fits into a broader vision for the region’s growth and development. When regions invest strategically in industries, they create fertile ground for policy, innovation, workforce development, and the kind of collaborative ecosystem that drives sustained success.

In the case of the KC Animal Health Corridor, this kind of long-term thinking has been key to our rise as a global hub for animal health and bioscience over the last twenty years. The Corridor doesn’t attract companies simply because of its incentives—it draws them because of the strong partnerships, the supportive infrastructure, and the commitment to advancing the industry’s future. Over the last two decades, the Corridor has developed a unique ecosystem where innovation, collaboration, and workforce development thrive, fueling not only short-term wins but also the long-term growth of the animal health sector.

Ultimately, the success of large-scale projects depends on strong business incentives, a pro-business environment and a region that invests in its industries. Regions that align their economic strategy with emerging trends and foster an environment where collaboration and innovation can flourish will win. The Animal Health Corridor is a prime example of what’s possible when the right elements come together to build a sustainable, thriving industry.

Merck Animal Health Grows R&D and Manufacturing Footprint in KC Animal Health Corridor

Congratulations to our partners in De Soto, Kansas, on the selection of Merck Animal Health’s announcement to invest $895 million in the expansion of its manufacturing and R&D operations, creating 200 jobs and 200,000-square-feet of new space.

Merck Animal Health is a research-driven global leader in veterinary medicine, offering one of the industry’s most innovative and scientifically proven portfolios for disease prevention, treatment and control across major farm and companion animal species.

The Kansas City Area Development Council was proud to partner with the following organizations in attracting Merck Animal Health’s expansion to the KC region:

State of Kansas

Kansas Department of Commerce

City of De Soto, Kansas

De Soto Kansas Chamber of Commerce

De Soto Economic Development Council

Evergy

KC Animal Health Corridor

Read the News Release

CERES TAG Launches Next-Generation CERES RANCHER(TM) Device, Delivering Smarter Animal Health Intelligence for U.S. Cattle Producers

New CERES RANCHER device delivers smarter insights, stronger design, and improved efficiency for modern cattle producers across the U.S.

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – April 28, 2025 – CERES TAG, the global leader in direct-to satellite animal tracking and livestock intelligence, has announced the launch of its newest product, the CERES RANCHER (TM). This advanced technology represents the latest advancement in a series of innovations designed to equip ranchers, producers, veterinarians, and researchers with powerful, real-time insights that strengthen cattle operations from pasture to plate.

Following strong growth in the U.S. market over the first half of 2025 and early success with key partnerships and distribution, CERES TAG has expanded its portfolio with a device that incorporates feedback from years of field use across global operations. The CERES RANCHER builds on the strengths of the original CERES RANCH device, delivering new functionality, durability, and simplicity to producers while maintaining the accuracy and reliability that has defined the company’s reputation.

“This is the next level of livestock intelligence to meet the future and current demands of ranching,” said David Smith, Co-Founder and CEO of CERES TAG. “We’ve listened to producers, researchers, and field experts around the world, and RANCHER is the result of this research. It delivers better analytical data, faster, and with greater ease of use.”

The CERES RANCHER includes improvements in battery performance and a stronger, more rugged housing. It features a simplified application process and a newly designed activation tool that improves alignment and reduces user error. Additionally, its updated algorithms now provide separately reported data for resting and ruminating behaviors, a critical development for producers and researchers seeking to better understand herd activity and efficiency.

As livestock operations across the U.S. face mounting pressure from reduced herd sizes and rising calf prices, tools like CERES RANCHER offer real advantages in herd management. With continuous insights into grazing, movement, health, and behavior, the device supports better decisions, streamlined labor, and increased profitability for producers of all sizes.

“Our platform is not just about location, it’s about insights that help producers be more productive and thrive in today’s competitive environment” Smith added. “We’re focused on improving productivity and profitability with every tag.”

CERES RANCHER will be available through approved distribution channels. The original CERES RANCH device will continue to be offered while supplies last, giving producers the flexibility to choose the product that best meets their operation’s needs.

CERES TAG continues to scale its presence across North America with the mission of redefining ranching through intelligence, not just tracking. With clients including Lykes Bros. Ranch in Florida and research collaborations with the University of Tennessee, the company is quickly establishing itself as an essential platform in modern livestock management.

CERES TAG is the world’s first direct-to-satellite animal health intelligence platform, delivering secure, real-time insights on cattle health, behavior, and location without the need for cellular networks or manual data collection. With operations across the U.S., Australia, and beyond, CERES TAG is reshaping how producers and researchers manage animal health, biosecurity, traceability, and profitability.

For more information about CERES TAG and its innovative solutions, visit www.cerestag.com.


About CERES TAG

CERES TAG is a pioneering Australian company specializing in direct-to-satellite animal monitoring technology. The company’s innovative solutions provide real-time tracking and data analytics for livestock and wildlife, enhancing productivity, profitability and sustainability in the agriculture and conservation sectors. | cerestag.com

Contact:
Cara Neill
cneill@jnaadv.com
913.327.0055

The Connector | April 2025

The Connector, KC Animal Health Corridor logo, woman feeding a cow, a puppy and a kitten

Welcome to The Connector. Fetching the freshest animal health news.

Important Things You Need to Know

Something Big Is Coming: Le's see how big Animal Health can get. Animal Health Corridor Summit

Something BIG is coming to the Animal Health Summit…

The Animal Health Summit is back – and this year’s event is bringing something new to the table – something with the potential to change the conversation. Register today for the Summit happening August 25–26.

We’re not saying much yet. But you’ll want to be there when it lands.

KC Animal Health Corridor Spring Networking Event

🌟 Spring Networking Event – Sponsored by Country Club Bank

Join us May 1 from 4–6 PM at Stock Hill for the AHC’s Spring Networking Event—where good convos (and good drinks) flow.

Spots are limited—register now and we’ll see you there! >> Register Now

Iron Paw Award KC

Dr. Edward Robb Named 2025 Iron Paw Award Honoree

We’re proud to announce that Dr. Edward Robb, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Nutrition), has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Iron Paw Award.

A respected leader, innovator, and advocate for animal health, Dr. Robb’s impact spans decades—and continues to shape the future of our industry.

On A Mission KC Recognized for Transformative Community Impact

We are proud to recognize On A Mission KC as the 2025 recipient of the Spirit of Service Award.

With tireless dedication and deep local reach, On A Mission KC provides vital veterinary care and support to underserved communities—removing barriers to access and honoring the bond between people and their animals.


How Business Consolidation is Shaping Leadership and Innovation in Animal Health

Business consolidation in the Animal Health industry has reshaped the landscape, influencing not just the size and structure of companies but also the nature of leadership within the sector. The merging of smaller, specialized companies into larger multinational corporations has created a more complex dynamic where a diverse range of thought leaders now play key roles in shaping the industry’s direction.  >> Read Full Blog


Industry News

A Year of Growth and Impact: American Royal’s 2024 Annual Report

Felixvet Announces New Hires to Lead Sales

Chewy Announces Fiscal Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Financial Results

Hill’s Pet Nutrition announces veterinary leadership changes in US and EMEA

AVMA echoes Congress’ renewed call to recruit and retain veterinarians in high-need areas

ELIAS Animal Health Receives Full Approval from USDA for the ELIAS Cancer Immunotherapy (ECI®), First-In-Class Treatment for Canine Osteosarcoma

Elanco Announces Changes to Board of Directors; Signs Research Agreement to Explore Novel Therapies for Chronic Kidney Disease and Life Extension in Pets

Freshpet advances research on pet-human health connection

Merck Animal Health Donates $50,000 to the National Professional Agricultural Student Organization to Support Its Educational Advancement Program

Boehringer Ingelheim Partners with Veeva to Launch ‘One Medicine Platform’

Study identifies possible new treatment for cats with urinary obstructions and elevated potassium levels

Students see success at Midwest American Society of Animal Science Meeting

K-State veterinarian warns of common pet poisons

Hill’s Pet Nutrition Launches “Because You’re Only Human”

Felixvet Launches Carprofen Soft Chewable Tablets

Philip J. Bergman, DVM, PhD, DACVIM (Oncology) Joins ELIAS Animal Health Scientific Advisory Board


Save the Date

2026 Animal Health Summit

August 31 – September 1


How Business Consolidation is Shaping Leadership and Innovation in Animal Health

Business consolidation in the Animal Health industry has reshaped the landscape, influencing not just the size and structure of companies but also the nature of leadership within the sector. The merging of smaller, specialized companies into larger multinational corporations has created a more complex dynamic where a diverse range of thought leaders now play key roles in shaping the industry’s direction.

A decade ago, executives from large multinational companies typically had the most influence: driving trends and innovation within our industry. Their perspectives were often broad, grounded in corporate strategies aimed at covering a wide range of species, therapeutic categories, and global markets. However, with consolidation, there’s been a shift. Entrepreneurs, often from smaller companies with deep expertise in specific therapeutic categories or niche species, are now rising to prominence alongside these traditional corporate leaders.

This blending of expertise leads to a more robust dialogue around innovation. Entrepreneurs bring a wealth of knowledge on the challenges and opportunities in specific therapeutic areas, whether it’s new treatments for emerging diseases or innovations for certain species. Their specialized knowledge allows for more focused advancements in certain fields that might have previously been overlooked or underdeveloped in the larger corporate structures.

On the other hand, executives from large multinational companies offer a macro-level understanding of global trends, regulatory environments, and the ability to scale solutions. These leaders can help bring innovative ideas to a larger audience, ensuring new breakthroughs have the infrastructure to reach a global market.

The combination of broad corporate perspectives and narrow, specialized knowledge creates a powerful synergy. It’s a dynamic that allows the Animal Health industry to be more agile, addressing both large-scale global challenges and specific, localized needs. This shift in leadership also fosters greater collaboration across sectors, as entrepreneurs with specialized expertise can now partner with multinational corporations, bringing novel solutions to market faster.

This diversification of thought leadership also creates a more inclusive approach to problem-solving. With more players at the table, there’s an increased likelihood of diverse ideas being considered—whether it’s in regulatory affairs, animal welfare, sustainability, or advancing scientific research. The larger, more varied group of decision-makers can adapt to the rapid pace of change within the industry, responding to consumer demands for more sustainable practices, more targeted treatments, and a better understanding of animal health on a species-specific basis.

As an industry, we need to continue to embrace the perspectives of entrepreneurs as consolidation continues. They bring a diverse range of perspectives and expertise that is essential in tackling the global challenges facing animal health, ultimately benefiting both the animals and the professionals working to improve their well-being.

Felixvet Launches Carprofen Soft Chewable Tablets

Media Contact:
Paula Flavin
Project/Marketing Manager
D: 1-816-832-8175
Email: info@felixvet.com

Felixvet Launches Carprofen Soft Chewable Tablets  

Kansas City, Mo. — April 3, 2025 — As part of its commitment to enhance animal health, Felixvet has successfully launched Carprofen Soft Chewable Tablets, now available through animal health distributors. Felixvet, Inc., a generic companion animal pharmaceutical manufacturer based in Ireland, established its North American headquarters in Kansas City, Missouri, in 2023.

“We are excited to announce the launch of our fifth carprofen product offering in the U.S. market,” said Vince Palasota, President of North America at Felixvet. “This development marks a significant step forward in providing quality, affordable healthcare solutions for pets without sacrificing efficacy, safety or reliability.”

Felixvet is leading the animal health market by introducing Carprofen Soft Chewable Tablets to its portfolio of carprofen products. This addition offers veterinarians five different forms of carprofen, each specifically designed to meet the diverse needs of their customers.

“We are committed to introducing additional products that will help us become one of the leading companion animal generic drug companies globally,” states Palasota.

Carprofen Soft Chewable Tablets provide the same therapeutic benefits as other branded carprofen medications, but the new beef flavored Felixvet Soft Carprofen Chewable Tablets offer a state of the art, unique soft chewable tablet compared to the hard chewable tablet pioneer, RIMADYL®. They are easy to administer orally due to the palatable beef flavor. Felixvet’s Soft Chewable technology is based on traditional compression technology without the constraints imposed by current production processes such as extrusion or molding.

A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory, Carprofen Soft Chewable Tablets relieve pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. The tablets are therapeutically equivalent to the pioneer drug, RIMADYL®, with the same safety and efficacy. Available in three strengths, 25, 75 and 100 mg, each tablet is scored for easy and accurate dosing.

For more information, visit Felixvet.com or info@felixvet.com.


About Felixvet: 

Founded in 2015 by Dr. Shumeet Banerji, Jon Symonds and Neeraj Agrawal, Felix is in the business of developing bioequivalent generic pharmaceutical products for companion animals. The company’s initial focus is to market and distribute these products in North American markets upon approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and Health Canada. Felix aims to be the first truly global generic companion animal pharmaceutical player focusing on the top 10 veterinary markets of the world. It aims to make bioequivalent generics available at affordable prices from cGMP-compliant manufacturing plants.

Felixvet Announces New Hires to Lead Sales

Media Contact:
Paula Flavin
Project/Marketing Manager
D: 1-816-832-8175
Email:info@felixvet.com

Felixvet Announces New Hires to Lead Sales

Kansas City, Mo. — March 18, 2025 — Felixvet, Inc., an Ireland-based generic companion animal pharmaceutical manufacturer, established its North American headquarters in Kansas City, Mo., in 2023, is pleased to announce the addition of Matthew Maggio and Michael Morelli as Directors of Corporate Accounts for North America. In their new roles, Maggio and Morelli will execute strategic sales plans, foster long-term partnerships, collaborate with distributor partners and drive business growth through creative marketing solutions.

Matthew Maggio has nearly two decades of experience leading high-performing teams in the pharmaceutical industry, including MWI Animal Health, Elanco and Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc.

Before joining Felixvet, Maggio launched his career in sales and quickly rose through the ranks to become a top-producing salesperson and account manager. Throughout his career, he has consistently excelled in competitive markets, leveraging his extensive technical knowledge in animal immunology, pharmaceuticals and product marketing to drive success.

Michael Morelli brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as a National Account Manager and Sales Director, where he successfully drove large-scale account growth and managed high-performing teams. Morelli has honed his leadership and strategic sales skills, overseen regional operations and cultivating strong customer relationships.

Before joining Felixvet, Morelli held leadership roles at Terumo Medical Corporation, IQVIA and Takeda Pharmaceuticals North America, where he successfully developed and motivated high-performing teams. Throughout his career, he has worked closely with animal health distributors and veterinarians, forging strategic partnerships to drive business growth and innovation.

“We are very pleased to have both Matthew Maggio and Michael Morelli join the team at Felixvet. Together, they bring over 40 years of experience in pharmaceutical industry sales and have a proven track record of success,” said Vince Palasota, President of Felixvet North America. “Their expertise will be instrumental in helping us achieve our growth objectives. With a wealth of experience in sales management and team leadership, they will help us on our mission to advance veterinary care by offering straight generics, value-added products, and novel solutions.”

For more information, visit Felixvet.com or info@felixvet.com.


About Felixvet: 

Founded in 2015 by Dr. Shumeet Banerji, Jon Symonds and Neeraj Agrawal, Felix is in the business of developing bio-equivalent generic pharmaceutical products for companion animals. The company’s initial focus is to market and distribute these products in the North American markets, upon approval by the Food and Drug Administration and Health Canada. Felix aims to be the first truly global generic companion animal pharmaceutical player focusing on the top 10 veterinary markets of the world. It aims to make bioequivalent generics available at affordable prices from cGMP-compliant manufacturing plants.

The Connector | March 2025

The Connector, KC Animal Health Corridor logo, woman feeding a cow, a puppy and a kitten

Welcome to The Connector. Fetching the freshest animal health news.

Important Things You Need to Know

Showcasing the future: emergin Companies Apply Now. Animal Health Corridor Summit

Emerging Companies: This is your last chance to step up and stand out at the 2025 Animal Health Summit.

At The Summit, groundbreaking ideas meet the investors and industry leaders who can bring them to life. From cutting-edge pet care and AgTech to food production and diagnostics, this is where innovation turns into impact.

Time is running out – don’t miss your shot. Apply by April 1 and take your place at the forefront of animal health innovation. >> Apply Now

Animal Health Summit Sponsorships are now open!

Be front and center as the brightest minds in animal health come together to shape the future. As a sponsor, you’ll connect with top innovators, investors, and decision-makers driving change in pet care, AgTech, food production, and diagnostics.

Our 2025 programming is packed with opportunities to engage, inspire, and make lasting connections. Take a peek at what’s in store and see why this is the place to be.

KC Animal Health Corridor Spring Networking Event

Register Now! 🌟 AHC Spring Networking Event

Secure your spot for an evening of connections and conversations! Join us on May 1 at Country Club Bank from 4 PM – 6 PM for our Spring Networking Event.

Meet industry peers, spark new opportunities, and enjoy great company. Don’t miss out – register today! >> Register Now


Embracing Change: Finding Hope and Support as Spring Approaches

As spring approaches, the changing of seasons offers an opportunity to pause and reflect. Even if the year is off to a rocky start, you can take control of your situation and find solace in the support of those in your network. Read this month’s blog to find ways to strengthen your resolve for the upcoming season.  >> Read Full Blog


Industry News

CERES TAG Announces New Distribution Partnership with Jeffers Inc.

Indeed names veterinarians as top job for 2025

Elanco Enters Agreement with Medgene to Commercialize Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Vaccine in Dairy Cattle

K-State’s Animal and Veterinary Innovation Center will focus on livestock pain management

WOAH launches website to drive global dialogue on animal health

Elanco Animal Health Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Results

Do embedded counseling services in veterinary education work? A new study says “yes.”

Boehringer Ingelheim launches new trivalent poultry vaccine, includes protection against H5 avian influenza

Dechra Launches DuOtic®: The First Antibiotic-Free Otitis Externa Treatment for Dogs

Merck Animal Health Awards $50,000 in Scholarships to Future Swine Practitioners

K-State researchers developing index to measure cattle pain, stress using consumption rate

New therapy for dogs with cancer shows promise

Accelerating the Future of Pet Care: Pet Nutrition Startups Target Transformative Trends

A new protocol guide can help veterinarians standardize their approach to canine osteoarthritis

Veterinary Health Center introduces state-of-the-art MRI to Missouri

Hill’s, APOP join forces to fight pet obesity

Veeva HCP Access Improves Segmentation and Targeting with Brick-Level HCP Access Data for 20 Countries


Save the Date

2026 Animal Health Summit

August 31 – September 1


Embracing Change: Finding Hope and Support as Spring Approaches

Kansas City has experienced an especially cold and snowy winter this year, but as the weather begins to shift, the days grow longer, and the promise of spring starts to emerge. For many of us, this changing of seasons offers an opportunity to pause and reflect.

Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the challenges many around me are facing—whether it’s job displacement, adjusting to new work dynamics, or managing personal struggles. I want to acknowledge the weight of these challenges and let you know that I truly empathize with what you’re going through. These difficult times don’t go unnoticed.

As spring approaches, I feel a renewed sense of optimism and energy. Better days are ahead. For those who may be weathering a storm right now, I want to encourage you to keep pushing forward. If there’s any way I can assist, whether through introductions, a conversation, or simply providing support, I’m here to help. Please feel free to reach out, and I’ll make space to connect. 

Remember, we are all human. Be kind to yourself.

  1. Allow Yourself Grace: It’s important to remember that no one has to handle everything on their own. It’s okay to lean on others, and it’s okay to have days where you don’t feel 100%. We all need time to recover, and sometimes simply acknowledging your emotions is a powerful step forward.
  2. Embrace Small Wins: In challenging times, even the smallest accomplishments can feel monumental. Celebrate those little victories, whether it’s getting through a tough day or taking time to care for yourself. Over time these victories add up and are worth recognizing.
  3. Create a Support Network: The road to brighter days doesn’t have to be traveled alone. Reach out to friends, colleagues, or community groups. A simple check-in or sharing your experience with them can help lighten the load. 
  4. Focus on What You Can Control: In times of uncertainty, it can be overwhelming to think about everything at once. Try to focus on what’s within your control. Perhaps it’s your daily routine, taking a few moments for self-care, or seeking out new opportunities. Taking small steps toward what you can control can offer peace amidst chaos.
  5. Remember, You Are Not Alone: It’s easy to feel isolated when things get tough, but it’s important to remember that many of us are navigating similar struggles, even if we don’t show it. There’s strength in solidarity, and you don’t have to go through tough times by yourself.

As we all move forward into spring, let’s remind each other that brighter days are ahead. Be kind to yourself and know that it’s okay to seek help when needed. You’ve got this!