The Connector | December 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

It’s getting close. Secure your spot for The Gathering at VMX.

The Corridor’s biggest networking event of the year is fast approaching, and momentum is already building. On January 18, from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. EST, the Regency Rotunda at the Hyatt Regency will become the hub for connection, conversation, and industry energy. Registration is open. Lock in your spot while space is available. >> SECURE YOUR SPOT


Animalytix Market Update 2026

The 15th annual Animalytix Market Update is coming.

Mark your calendars! The 15th edition of the Animalytix Market Update is coming soon. Taking place February 12 from 10:00 to 11:30 CST via Zoom, this session will deliver a deep, data-focused look at key market segments across the animal health industry.

Proceeds from registration will support the Spirit of Service award recipients, the non-profit organizations strengthening the human-animal bond. >> REGISTER NOW


Spirit of Service and Iron Paw Award

Honor the Best in Animal Health – Nominations Now Open.

The 2026 Spirit of Service and Iron Paw awards from the KC Animal Health Corridor recognize the game-changers shaping our industry. Spirit of Service honors those elevating the human-animal bond, while Iron Paw celebrates powerhouse contributors across academia, research, industry, and government.

Know someone making an impact? Nominate your champions today.

>> SPIRIT OF SERVICE

>> IRON PAW


Animal Health Corridor Summit

The 2026 Animal Health Summit is now accepting applications for Emerging Companies!

The Animal Health Summit is the ultimate stage for groundbreaking companies in animal health, nutrition, diagnostics, and technology. If you’re pushing the boundaries in areas like companion animal care, AgTech, food animal production, or diagnostics, this is your moment to shine. Connect with investors and strategic partners who are actively seeking the next wave of innovation and game-changing solutions. Don’t miss the chance to showcase your vision to a global audience ready to fuel your success. >> APPLY NOW


When an Industry Shows Up, a Generation of Potential Grows

How do you measure the impact of inspiring future careers when there’s no dashboard to prove it? In animal health, meaningful workforce development lives in conversations, classrooms, and moments that don’t fit neatly into a spreadsheet. Discover how we witnessed our true impact at the NAAE Conference—and why showing up matters more than metrics. >> READ FULL BLOG


Industry News

Chewy Announces Third Quarter 2025 Financial Results

Dechra Announces FDA Approval of Emeprev™ (maropitant citrate) Injectable Solution

Zoetis Highlights R&D Leadership and Long-Term Growth Opportunity at Innovation Webcast

Zoetis to Host Innovation Webcast

Elanco Investor Day Defines New Era as Sustainable Growth Company

Hill’s Pet Nutrition and The Veterinary Cooperative Select Otto’s AI Scribe to Offer Free to Clinics Nationwide

Hill’s Pet Nutrition Reaches 16 Million Adoptions Milestone

Cats Claim Record Share of Veterinary Visits as Feline Market Momentum Builds

K-State Joins National Effort to Prepare Next Generation of Veterinary Entomologists

Merck Animal Health Reaches Unprecedented Milestone of 2 Million Cows Monitored with SenseHub® Dairy Technology

Understanding the Recent Equine Herpesvirus (EHV) Outbreak

Cultivating Leaders in Veterinary Pathology

Akston Initiates Clinical Trial of Once-Weekly GLP-1 Weight-Management Therapy for Cats

Elanco’s Credelio™ CAT (lotilaner) Receives First FDA Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Treatment of New World Screwworm (NWS) in Cats

DFA Cares Student Scholarship Applications Now Open for 2026

AVMA’s 2025-2026 Fellow Joins Congressional Office

Is Cultured Protein the Future of Protein in Pet Food?

How Pet Food Keeps Millions of Tons of Food Waste Out of Landfills

FDA to Lower Number of Trials Required for Approval of Drugs, Other Medical Products


The Connector | November 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

Register Now for The Gathering Networking Event at VMX 2026

The Corridor’s biggest networking event of the year is back! Join us January 18, from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. EST in the Regency Rotunda at the Hyatt Regency for an afternoon of connection and conversation with industry leaders shaping the future of animal health. Registration is now open, so secure your spot today! >> Register Now

Manufacturing Moment in the Corridor

Manufacturing is thriving across the KC Animal Health Corridor, creating new opportunities for skilled talent and innovation. Corridor VP Emily McVey joins Jennifer Harlow of Merck Animal Health to discuss how recent facility growth and workforce development are shaping the future of animal health manufacturing throughout our region. >> Watch the Conversation

dsm-firmenich Expands in the Corridor with Pet Premix Facility

Big news for the Animal Health Corridor! dsm-firmenich has officially opened its next-generation, fully automated pet-only premix facility in Tonganoxie, Kansas. This state-of-the-art site raises the bar for safety, precision, and nutrition in pet food manufacturing across North America. >> Read Now


Leading Together: Reflections on Collaboration, Competition, and Industry Progress

In today’s fast-moving animal health industry, collaboration among competitors isn’t just admirable — it’s essential. Through advisory boards like the Animal Health Corridor, leaders from across the field come together to share insights, align on priorities, and drive progress that benefits everyone. Learn how this spirit of collective leadership is shaping the future of our industry in this month’s blog post. >> Read Full Blog


Industry News

Dechra Advances Public Health as Newest Human-Animal Bond Certified Company

Felixvet Receives FDA Approval for Cefpodoxime Proxetil Tablets

Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA Announces Third-Quarter 2025 Financial Results

Elanco Announces Expansion of Credelio Quattro™ and Credelio™ Labels, Offering Protection Against Lyme Disease and an Emerging Tick Species

Chewy to Acquire SmartEquine, Expanding Leadership in the Equine Health Categoryx

How Outdated Systems Are Costing Animal Health Companies Millions — and What You Can Do About It

FDA Appoints Timothy Schell To Lead Veterinary Medicine Center

Dechra Announces U.S. Launch of Solovecin™ (cefovecin sodium), an In-Clinic Antibiotic Solution for Skin Infections in Dogs and Cats

Elanco Animal Health Reports Third Quarter 2025 Results

Akston Pioneers a New Generation of Cancer Therapy for Dogs in Clinical Trial Launch

BiomEdit Awarded Nearly $2 Million from Bezos Earth Fund to Advance AI Model for Methane-Reduction Strategies in Cattle

Boehringer Ingelheim and Shelters United to Improve Access to Preventive Veterinary Care for Shelter Animals

Merck Animal Health Donates $20,000 to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Klosterman Feedlot Innovation Center to Advance Sustainability-focused Research for Feedlot Cattle

Zoetis Announces Third Quarter 2025 Results

Zoetis Announces Retirement of Rob Polzer at the End of 2025 and the Appointment of Kevin Esch as President of Research & Development for World Leader in Animal Health Beginning in 2026

Mizzou Researcher Receives Fellowship to Advance Pasture Management Technology for Farmers

Kansas Veterinary Diagnostic Medicine Internship Program Doubles Number of Trainees

Phibro Animal Health Corporation Reports First Quarter Results, Updates Financial Guidance

Colgate-Palmolive Company Announces 3rd Quarter 2025 Results

Digitail Secures $23 million Series B Funding to Expand AI-Driven Veterinary Practice Management

2025 AVMA Animal Welfare Assessment Contest Winners Announced


Save the Date

2026 Animal Health Summit

August 31 – September 1


The Connector | October 2025

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

Important Things You Need to Know

Save the Date for The Gathering Networking Event at VMX 2026

The Corridor will be hosting our annual networking reception on Sunday, January 18, from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. EST in the Regency Rotunda at the Hyatt Regency. Mark your calendars so you don’t miss this event! >> Save the Date

Help Shape the 2026 Animal Health Summit by Sharing Your Ideas for Topics and Speakers

We’re gathering feedback on topics and speakers for the 2026 Animal Health Summit. Your input is key to building sessions that are timely and relevant. Please share your suggestions with the Animal Health Corridor team via the form below. All submissions will be presented to the Corridor Board for final selection. We look forward to your ideas! >> Submit 2026 AHS Programming Ideas

The Final Countdown: Fall Networking is Almost Here

Less than one week! The Corridor’s can’t-miss networking event is almost here. On Oct 21, 4–6 p.m., we’re taking over Vytelle for an evening of great people, big energy and real connections. Grab yours today! >> Register Now


The Non-negotiable Traits of a Leader: Listening, Empathy, and Integrity

In times of uncertainty, teams turn to their leaders for presence, stability, and trust. Turbulent environments test not only the resilience of a business but the character and capability of its leadership. Active listening, cross-functional understanding, and moral clarity form the foundation of a leader teams can believe in during tough times.  >> Read Full Blog


Industry News

New HABRI and Chewy Health Study Reveals Tech-Forward Solutions to Strengthen the Human-Animal Bond

Butterfly Network Launches Next-Generation Butterfly iQ3 Vet™ Solution in the United States and Canada

ELIAS Publishes Data on Chemo-Immunotherapy Regimen for Canine Osteosarcoma

Felixvet Receives FDA Approval for Methimazole Coated Tablets

CATalyst Council Releases Feline Market Insights Volume III: Continued Market Outperformance by Cats

ZyVet Animal Health Launches an FDA-Approved Generic Form of Furosemide Tablets

Felixvet Receives FDA Approval for Clindamycin Hydrochloride Tablets

Virbac Reports 1H 2025 Growth Driven by Sales for Specialty and Dental Products

Luna Bioscience’s Recent Research Discoveries Advance Development of Leptospirosis Rapid, Point-of-Care Diagnostic Tests and Recombinant Protein Vaccines

Cliff Miller named 2025 CVM Alumnus of the Year

Dr. Hunter Lang Named 2025 Mentor of the Year Posthumously by Merck Animal Health and the American Association of Bovine Practitioners

Zoetis to Host Webcast and Conference Call on Third Quarter 2025 Financial Results

A Q&A with Satyanarayana Rachagani: Insights on cancer, prevention and progress

Follow the Money: What Recent Funding Tells Us About Pet Industry Innovation

Generic phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride tablets hit the market

International Regulatory Divergence: Exports at Risk

‘Tis the Season for Tightening Wallets: Consumers are Expected to Spend Less

What Pet & Animal Health Leaders Need to Know About Adopting AI Today. Don’t be Left Trailing the Pack!


Save the Date

2026 Animal Health Summit

August 31 – September 1


The Connector | September 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

Animal Health Summit stage and big screen

20 Years in the Making. The Future Ahead.

At the 2025 Animal Health Summit, we celebrated two decades of impact in the Corridor and unveiled our new Workforce Recruitment Campaign, a bold initiative designed to attract and grow the next generation of talent. If you missed the energy in the building, don’t miss your chance to help shape the future. Share your ideas for 2026 programming today.

Helping You Build the Future Workforce of Animal Health

We’ve launched our Workforce Recruitment Campaign to support companies and organizations across the industry in finding and engaging the next generation of talent. This effort is designed with you in mind, providing ready-to-use tools, messaging, and shareable resources to make recruitment easier and more impactful.

All materials are available on ExploreAHCareers.com, where you’ll find everything you need to showcase animal health careers and spotlight our industry as a hub of innovation, impact, and opportunity. Access the toolkit today and put it to work for your organization. Need assistance? Email Corridor Vice President, Emily McVey, with your inquiries!

>> Workforce Recruitment Toolkit

The Corridor’s Can’t-Miss Networking Night

October 21 from 4 to 6 p.m. we’re taking over Vytelle for an evening that’s all about good people, good energy, and a darn good time. This isn’t another box to check. It’s the kind of night you’ll want to show up for. Grab your spot and join the party! >> Register Now


20 Years of Progress, One Future to Build: Join the Animal Health Workforce Movement

For twenty years, the Animal Health Corridor has fueled innovation and growth—attracting companies, creating jobs, and investing billions in the Kansas City region. Now, the focus shifts to the future with the launch of the Workforce Campaign, tackling the industry’s biggest challenge: closing the talent gap. From scientists to storytellers, animal health needs every skill set, and with tools at ExploreAHCareers.com, it’s time for all of us to inspire the next generation to join.  >> Read Full Blog


Industry News

KC Animal Health Corridor at 20: ‘We’ve only scratched the surface’

ELIAS Animal Health to Present New Research at Upcoming Human and Veterinary Oncology Conferences

Chewy Announces Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

Hill’s Pet Nutrition Announces 2025 Hill’s Global Symposium – “Strong Science, Long Lives” – to Advance Senior Pet Care

National Veterinary Associates names new CEO

Elanco Innovation Builds Momentum, Credelio Quattro™ (lotilaner, moxidectin, praziquantel, and pyrantel chewable tablets) Reaches Blockbuster Status

CERES TAG Partners with Texas A&M AgriLife Research to Advance Livestock Data Collection and Education

LEAH Labs Receives National Science Foundation (NSF) Phase IIB Grant Award

Clipper Distributing and Butterfly Network Announce New Agreement

Plug and Play Topeka Selects New Cohort of 13 Animal Health Startups for Accelerator Program

The Women of Influence program honors the top-ranking women in the Kansas City business community.

Fighting back against a dangerous tick-borne disease

Mizzou graduate student to study service dogs’ health and well-being

Dechra Expands AVMF Scholarship Program, Adding New Category Focused on Anesthesia, Surgery, and Critical Care

Merck Animal Health Reaches Unprecedented Milestone of 2 Million Cows Monitored with SenseHub® Dairy Technology

Boehringer Ingelheim launches swine vaccine with advanced protection against porcine circovirus type 2 in the United States

USDA announces plan to address rural, federal veterinary shortages

HILL’S PET NUTRITION RELEASES 2025 CANADA STATE OF SHELTER PET ADOPTION REPORT


Save the Date

2026 Animal Health Summit

August 31 – September 1


The Connector | August 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

Kimberly Young

Kimberly Young Featured In Women’s Business Daily

KC Animal Health Corridor President Kimberly Young was recently profiled by Women’s Business Daily in a powerful interview about leadership, resilience, and building one of the world’s most influential industry clusters. From high-stakes negotiations to work-life integration, Kimberly shares what it means to lead with purpose and on your own terms. >> Full Feature

Remembering Ron Brakke

The Animal Health Corridor extends its deepest condolences to the Brakke family and to the dedicated team he built at Brakke Consulting.

Ron Brakke was not only a pioneer in animal health consulting, but also a passionate advocate for the industry for more than six decades. His unwavering support and visionary leadership were instrumental in shaping the early years of the Animal Health Corridor, and his contributions were honored with the 2014 Iron Paw Award.

Ron’s legacy will continue to inspire and influence the animal health community for years to come. We are grateful for his many contributions and mourn the loss of a true industry icon. >> Read More About Ron Brakke

Fall Networking at Vytelle

Join us October 21 from 4-6 p.m. at Vytelle for an evening of networking with animal health professionals and Corridor colleagues. Mark your calendar now and watch for registration details soon. >> Register Now


Letting Go to Further Grow in Life & Business

As I drop my son off for his freshman year of college, I realize the parallels between business and life’s challenging moments. It’s important we trust the process, because discomfort is where we all grow. >> Read Full Blog


Industry News

Top Pet Innovators Unleashed in 2025 Pet Innovation Awards

Elanco Animal Health Reports Second Quarter 2025 Results

Zoetis Announces Second Quarter 2025 Results, Raises Full Year 2025 Outlook

Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA Announces Second-Quarter 2025 Financial Results

Akston Expands Leadership Team with Appointment of Two Veterinarians to Advance First-in-Class Biologics for Pets

Department of Agriculture Announces Reorganization Plan

New scientific review program manager named to oversee ingredient submissions pathway

BiomEdit Advances First-of-Its-Kind Engineered Bacteria Product to Final Development Phase, Secures Series B Funding and Adds Key Industry Leadership

Advancing Drug Development with Non-Liquid Matrix Bioanalysis

Merck Animal Health Announces FDA Approval of EXZOLT™ (fluralaner oral solution) for Chickens, the First Systemic Treatment for Northern Fowl Mites

Connect Veterinary Consulting Announces New Service Offering

From the livestock barn to the pageant stage, the Missouri State Fair offers young agriculturalists unique leadership roles

AVMA and ACVIM honor Joan Coates

White Label vs. Private Label: What’s the Difference—and Where’s the Opportunity?

‘Mini farm bill’ funds national animal disease research and management

Startups across the pet industry can apply for a chance to win up to $50,000 in non-dilutive funding

COST, GUILT AND DOUBT: HILL’S PET NUTRITION’S 2025 STATE OF SHELTER PET ADOPTION REPORT REVEALS WHY PETS STILL WAIT IN SHELTERS

Shelter Pets Get Their Big Break as Actor Josh Hutcherson Joins Hill’s Pet Nutrition During Annual NBCUniversal Local’s Clear The Shelters


Save the Date

2026 Animal Health Summit

August 31 – September 1


The Connector | July 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

Big Things Await at the 2025 Animal Health Summit

Early Bird Registration Ends July 18
Lock in your spot before prices go up. You’ll get access to two days of industry networking, emerging company showcases, and business partnering meetings—all in one place.

1:1 Business Partnering Opens July 21
Mark your calendars: 1:1 partnering opens July 21, giving you the chance to schedule high-impact meetings with partners, investors, and collaborators at the Summit.

New Technologies You’ll Want to See
From AI copilots and feline cancer treatments to smart harnesses and advanced diagnostics, this year’s emerging companies are redefining animal health. Don’t miss what’s next.

What’s Shaping Animal Health Now and What’s Next

Register today and join us August 5 at 10:00 am CDT for the Animalytix Mid-Year Market Update, a virtual event delivering the latest data, insights, and trends in animal health to help you navigate the rest of 2025.

Your registration does more than unlock insights – proceeds will support On A Mission KC, our 2025 Spirit of Service honoree, helping deliver critical resources and supplies to rural animal shelters across Kansas and Missouri.

>> Register Now

Fall Networking at Vytelle

Join us October 21 from 4-6 p.m. at Vytelle for an evening of networking with animal health professionals and Corridor colleagues. Mark your calendar now and watch for registration details soon. >> Save The Date


Creating a Cat-Forward Animal Health Industry

As more families welcome cats into their homes, it’s pertinent that the animal health industry adapts from a canine-first model to one that embraces feline health and wellness as a priority. Hear how we can do just that in this month’s blog.  >> Read Full Blog


Industry News

Hill’s Pet Nutrition names Hsu president

CERES TAG and Noble Research Institute Announce Exclusive Research Agreement

Bimini Pet Health Earns Prestigious NASC Preferred Supplier Designation

Vytelle’s New 2024 Global Pregnancy Summary Highlights Consistently High Success Rates Across Seven Countries

New Study Launches to Investigate Burnout Among Relief Veterinarians

10 powerful impacts from ReCHAI’s first 20 years

Elanco Announces Milestones Expanding Access to Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody (CPMA) to Veterinarians and Shelters Across the Country  

Spotlighting Innovation in Agriculture

Burns & McDonnell Donates Over $1 Million to Inspire Future STEM Leaders Through Expanded Science Center Partnerships

Hill’s Pet Nutrition launches new urinary, hairball control formulas

The Countdown Begins: With One Year To Go Until the FIFA World Cup 26™, KC2026 Unveils Official Countdown Clocks, Announces Official Host City Supporters of the Kansas City World Cup 2026

High School Students Learn To Lead the Animal Science Industry

Zoetis to Host Webcast and Conference Call on Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

Elanco Releases 2024 Impact Report and Introduces New Framework  

Landmark study sheds light on veterinary patient safety events

A Fly Of A Different Color

2025 Animal Health Conference to Feature Dynamic Speaker Lineup Across Pharmaceuticals, Biologics and Nutrition


Save the Date

2026 Animal Health Summit

August 31 – September 1


The Connector | June 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

Headshots of  Fiona Rey of Elanco, Dr. Fatou Sow of Boehringer Ingelheim and Dr. Jill Stohs of Dechra

Welcome New Board Members: Fiona Rey, Dr. Fatou Sow and Dr. Jill Stohs

We’re excited to welcome Fiona Rey of Elanco, Dr. Fatou Sow of Boehringer Ingelheim and Dr. Jill Stohs of Dechra to the Animal Health Corridor Board of Directors. These industry leaders bring incredible energy, insight, and passion to the table. We’re excited to have them on board as we continue moving the industry forward together. >> Meet Our New Board Members

Coming Soon: Your Mid-Year Animal Health Market Snapshot

What’s shaping the animal health market right now? What’s ahead for the rest of the year?

Join us August 5th at 10:00 am CDT for the Animalytix Mid-Year Market Update, a virtual event with the latest data, insights, and market trends you can use. All proceeds from registrations benefit the Spirit of Service program. >> Register Now

Don’t Miss What’s Coming. Early Bird Registration Ends Soon.

You’ve seen the tease. Now’s your chance to be part of it.

Something big is coming to the Corridor, and it all comes together at the Animal Health Summit on August 25-26 in Kansas City.

Early-bird registration ends July 18. Lock in your spot today.

U.S. Food & Drug Administration Logo

Register Now: FDA’s Animal Drug User Fee Educational Conference

The FDA is hosting the Second Annual Animal Drug User Fee Educational Conference on July 15. This public meeting will cover updates and insights on the animal drug approval process as part of the ongoing ADUFA reauthorization efforts. >> Get the Details


Supporting Career Growth Without Holding People Back

As a leader, watching someone on your team grow into their next opportunity can feel like a double-edged sword: pride in their progress paired with the sting of loss. You want to be the kind of leader who champions careers. However, when that growth means leaving the team, it can get complicated. This month’s blog dives into ways to help both sides find success today and down the road. >> Read Full Blog

Industry News

Merck Animal Health Manufacturing Investment | De Soto, Kansas

Dr. Mark Stetter Elected to Zoetis Board of Directors

FDA Approves Merck Animal Health’s MOMETAMAX SINGLE™  to Treat Otitis Externa in Dogs

Zoetis Launches AI Masses, the New AI-Powered Cytologic Capability for Vetscan Imagyst®

HILL’S PET NUTRITION AND HARVARD T.H. CHAN SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCHER DEEPEN COLLABORATION TO ADVANCE PET MICROBIOME SCIENCE AND INNOVATION

Animal Health Regulatory Affairs: Pharma | Bio | Nutrition

Merck Animal Health Announces the Availability of ARMATREX™ Spray-On Antimicrobial Solution in Partnership with Good Salt™ Life, LLC

Purina Provides Over 30,000 Pounds of Food and Dedicates More Than 5,000 Volunteer Hours to Helping People and Pets in Need During 24th Purina Cares Day

Zoetis Releases 2024 Sustainability Progress Update

Flying High with Fido: BARK Air, a New Era of Pet-Friendly Travel

K-State Olathe celebrates graduates, new academic programs

Moser to serve as interim dean of College of Agriculture

Mizzou scientists create a novel genetically engineered pig model for early-onset Alzheimer’s disease


Save the Date

2026 Animal Health Summit

August 31 – September 1


The Connector | May 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 about to drop at the Animal Health Summit 👀

Circle August 25-26 because this year, the Summit isn’t just back, it’s bringing something new to the table. The kind of announcement people will be talking about.

We’re keeping it quiet for now… but trust us, you’ll want a front-row seat when it hits.

Merck Animal Health logo

Merck Animal Health Announces Major Expansion in the KC Region

Merck Animal Health is growing its Center of Excellence in De Soto, Kansas with a $895 million investment in the site’s existing manufacturing facility. The project includes 200,000 square feet of new manufacturing and research space, 200 new facility jobs, and 2,500 construction jobs. >> Get the Details

Bimini Pet Health Breaks Ground

Bimini Pet Health Breaks Ground on Next Phase of Growth

Bimini Pet Health has officially begun construction on a new ingredient blending facility at its Topeka headquarters. This latest expansion boosts production capabilities, supports global growth, and brings new jobs to the local community. >> Learn More


The Key Ingredients for Winning Projects & Long-Term Success

For an industry to thrive and win big business, 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. This month’s blog discusses the secret sauce for lasting growth in an industry.  >> Read Full Blog


Industry News

CATalyst Council Releases First 2025 Market Insights Report: Feline Veterinary Care Emerges as Industry Growth Driver

epiq Animal Health and Interpath Global Launch Second Joint Health Product Offering – This One for Dogs

Dechra Announces FDA Approval of Otiserene® (marbofloxacin, terbinafine, and dexamethasone otic suspension) the latest treatment for canine otitis externa

HILL’S PET NUTRITION ENHANCES HILL’S SCIENCE DIET PORTFOLIO WITH GAME-CHANGING MICROBIOME INNOVATION

Tractor Supply Launches New Tractor Supply Rx With Easy Ordering for Pet and Animal Pharmacy Needs

Darwin’s Ark Teams Up with Hill’s Pet Nutrition and Leading Research Institutions to Explore Cats’ Genetic Code

New perspectives: Why veterinary care is so much more than you may think

Search-and-rescue dog stays mission-ready with help from Mizzou

Zoetis Announces First Quarter 2025 Results

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

PBI-Gordon Companies Acquires TriviumVet, Expanding Portfolio of Innovative Treatments in Pet Health

AVMA names Dr. Carlo Siracusa recipient of 2025 Bustad Companion Animal Veterinarian of the Year Award


Save the Date

2026 Animal Health Summit

August 31 – September 1


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


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