The most commonly used antimicrobial treatments for dogs and cats are not evidence-based, writes Scott Weese, DVM. Most antimicrobial treatment durations currently used in dogs and cats are probably way too long when we compare them to what’s done in human medicine for comparable conditions. Some of the differences are striking. Weese says a new systematic review entitled … [Read more...]
Frozen chicken should come from the grocery, not the coop
When temperatures fall below 60°F, chickens begin to experience cold stress, which can be severe and lead to death in extreme cases, writes Marisa Erasmus, PhD. She shares various factors that affect chickens’ susceptibility to cold stress. The article is relevant for poultry operations of all sizes, including the chickens in backyard poultry coops. Source: Modern Poultry, … [Read more...]
Good help is hard to find. Ways to attract, keep top farm employees.
Retaining exceptional employees in agriculture production requires innovative strategies that go beyond traditional compensation. Wesley Tucker shares strategies from a brainstorming session at The Executive Program for Agricultural Producers on how to link exceptional employees to the farm for the long haul. Source: Missouri Ruralist, January 26, 2026. Link. INSIGHTS: … [Read more...]
Boost herd health and performance through the transition period
The importance of managing the transition period from dry-off to peak milk rightfully dominates dairy management topics. In the article shared here, Zoetis’ Matthew Boyle, DVM, shares best practices that set transition cows up for success. Source: Progressive Dairy, December 15, 2025. Link. Boyle emphasizes the opportunity to make small adjustments in each of the three … [Read more...]
Ensure the bulls will be ready when their time comes
While January, February and March are typically a loafing period for breeding bulls, husbandry during winter remains important to ensure they are healthy when it’s their time. Beth Reynolds summarizes winter bull management in two categories: nutrition and breeding soundness. She says managing the impacts of cold weather on breeding soundness in herd sires requires being … [Read more...]
Extension beef specialist concerned about lower quality hay from 2025
Jeff Lehmkuhler has never seen lower hay quality than what he witnessed in 2025. With winter weather extremes and spring-calving cows in their third trimester, he recommends pulling forage samples to document what nutrient levels exist in unique lots of hay, then adjust accordingly. Communicating the importance of nutritional sampling is a simple action for veterinary teams … [Read more...]
Review: Tips to reduce the chance of hypothermia in calves
It never hurts to review and refresh calving processes. In this article, Oklahoma State’s Mark Johnson explains how to identify, prevent and manage cold stress in baby calves, including precalving nutrition of the cow that can reduce the chances of hypothermia. Consider positioning this article in social media posts or link it in newsletters. A few minutes to send it out … [Read more...]
Vetmedin chewable tablets receive full FDA approval for delay of congestive heart failure in dogs label indication
Emily Singler, VMD, shares that for the first time the FDA has granted full approval for an indication for an animal drug that was previously approved under the FDA’s expanded conditional approval authority. Vetmedin® (pimobendan) Chewable Tablets label has officially expanded to include an indication for the delay of the onset of congestive heart failure in dogs with stage B2 … [Read more...]
USDA approves TruCan™ Ultra B (Oral), a ½ mL Bordetella bronchiseptica vaccine for dogs
Building on TruCan B Oral, Elanco Animal Health Incorporated has received approval of TruCan™ Ultra B (Oral) the first USDA-licensed ½ mL oral Bordetella bronchiseptica vaccine for dogs. This is the second recent expansion of Elanco’s Tru vaccine line, with TruCan Ultra CIV H3N2/H3N8 receiving USDA approval in July of 2025. Source: Elanco, January 16, 2026. Link. … [Read more...]
Solvet launches CattleZen to reduce stress, boost health in cattle
CattleZen is a proprietary blend of maternal bovine-appeasing substance and a calming pheromone that, when applied just above the muzzle, stimulates a calming effect. The product will be officially launched at the 2026 CattleCon NCBA trade show, providing producers with an opportunity to learn about the science, performance benefits and practical use of the product. Source: … [Read more...]
USDA announces New World Screwworm Grand Challenge
The New World Screwworm Grand Challenge funding opportunity marks a pivotal step in USDA’s comprehensive strategy to combat NWS and prevent its northward spread. As part of the commitment USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service will make up to $100 million available to support innovative projects that enhance sterile NWS fly production, strengthen preparedness and … [Read more...]
Me time
Each day brings plenty of windows for reflection . . . during your commute . . . at the dentist . . . waiting for that friend who's always late. Daydreaming has surprising perks, but scrolling gets in the way. Source: Axios.com, January 8, 2026. Link. We pick up our devices 50 to 100 times a day . . . they constantly fill our minds with content that crowds out time to … [Read more...]
During the 1918 Flu Epidemic, pet caretakers put masks on their cats
Biosecurity and zoonotic diseases aren’t a new thing. Photographs of masked pets from the early-20th century might have been for levity, but there was genuine fear that pets could carry Spanish influenza back then. Source: Atlas Obscura, April 16, 2020. Link. … [Read more...]
5 common dog ailments that respond well to laser therapy
Non-invasive photobiomodulation therapy has grown as veterinary teams increase their understanding of its benefits when treating various canine diseases. The author reviews five canine diseases where laser therapy can be particularly effective. Source: Innovative Veterinary Care, January 17, 2025. Link. <BQ> “Photobiomodulation therapy offers veterinarians a … [Read more...]
Six dog training secrets
Animal health pros will like the positioning on dog training provided by author and trainer Carol Lea Benjamin in this article. Her easy tips on a) teaching a dog to pay attention and b) naming everything are caregiver-friendly and especially relevant when the dog is a family member. Source: Fear Free Happy Homes, January 2026. Link. INSIGHTS: Consider emphasizing this … [Read more...]
Rabbit Hemorrhagic Fever confirmed in North Carolina
The first case of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus type 2 in North Carolina has been confirmed in a domestic rabbit in Dare County. RHDV2 is typically a fatal disease affecting both domestic and wild rabbit populations. It is highly contagious, with mortality occurring within nine days after infection. While there have been isolated cases of RHDV2 in domestic rabbits in the … [Read more...]
Push back on owner perceptions of overweight horses
A recent study found that horse owners don’t always know how a healthy horse looks and some aren’t willing to change their beliefs. Advising them on accurate body condition scoring and explaining potential health concerns may help owners with obese horses make management changes, advises Lydia Gray. Overweight horses are at higher risk of laminitis than horses with an ideal … [Read more...]
Review: Stomach tubing best practices for new born calves
Bruce Derksen shares good reminders about when newborn calves need help in the form of stomach tubing. Before using the tube, consider these key steps to help ensure success. Tube condition, cleanliness and temperature are especially important. Source: Progressive Cattle, January 15, 2015. Link. Tubing a calf is a relatively simple process, but if done incorrectly, it will … [Read more...]
Acupuncture for cows
Acupuncture may provide a practical, low-risk adjunct for cattle veterinarians for pain and restoring function in food animals. It also can stimulate and influence both immune and reproductive system regulation. Source: Bovine Veterinarian, January 14, 2026. Link. When analgesic tools are scarce and animal comfort matters, acupuncture may offer a meaningful benefit at … [Read more...]
Mortality at the sow farm: a 10-year retrospective
Mortality continues to be one of the most influential factors affecting profitability, yet remains difficult to reduce. Despite ongoing innovation, robust disease management and collaborative efforts across all sectors of swine production, the analysis of a decade of data clearly shows the ongoing struggle with mortality. Rachel Johnson shares livability trends and data about … [Read more...]
Vets Choice Radiology leadership expansion signals next phase of growth, investment
VCR was founded to deliver timely, high-quality radiology expertise for veterinarians. As diagnostic demand continues to grow across the profession, the company is focused on strengthening the infrastructure, tools and teams that help veterinary practices access timely, consistent radiology interpretations to guide patient care 24/7, 365 days a year. Georgia Wraight has … [Read more...]
Live from VMX
With VMX 2026 in full swing, this news release captures real-time highlights, announcements, and trends shaping this year’s event. The ideas and innovations shared at VMX help shape new trends, influence how veterinarians champion care for animals, and ultimately help them provide smarter, faster and more effective care. Source: VMX, NAVC, January 20, 2026. Link. … [Read more...]
Worth a Glance – January 22, 2026
Last week’s AHD Bulletin – Animal Health Digest Bulletin, January 15, 2026. Link. Most read posts from January 15, 2026 AHD Bulletin – Feline veterinary care at pivotal point to drive future practice growth. Link. Benefits or features? Link. Understanding pet parents’ concerns about their pets. Link. Beyond the SEO algorithms, AI is changing “search”. … [Read more...]
Feline veterinary care at a pivotal point to drive future practice growth, feline medicine
Findings from the CATalyst Council’s 2025 Key Feline Market Insights report point to a market at an inflection point. Shifting demographics, economics and innovation are converging to elevate feline care. The report identifies this period as one of sustained growth and rising strategic importance, even as overall U.S. veterinary visits declined. Source: businesswire, January … [Read more...]
NAVC’s 2025 VETTY Award winners
The 2025 VETTY Awards® Grand Prize winners include: BEST IN SHOW (FOR PROFIT) AWARD: “Galliprant - Playing with Fire” by Elanco Animal Health and BarkleyOKRP. Category: Campaign - B2B/Trade. BEST IN SHOW (NONPROFIT) AWARD: “KC Animal Health Corridor WORKFORCE Campaign” by Animal Health Corridor and JNA Advertising. Category: Campaign - New Product, Program or Service … [Read more...]
VMX: Stop, look, listen but rest
The first big industry convention and trade expo is vibrating at the starting gate for an estimated 30,000 animal health professionals. The adrenaline is palpable as attendees try to take it all in. I’m unable to join you, so here’s my perspective from nearly 20 years of attending NAVC’s premier expo: Manage your personal biosecurity. Every year, some people return with … [Read more...]
IBPSA Fast Bites – January 12, 2026
In this week’s Fast Bites: IBPSA Canine and Feline Certification courses now available to Community Colleges Legislative news from New Hampshire and New York January 21st “Reading the Room” webinar reminder And the January 8th Animal Health Digest Bulletin. Source: IBPSA, January 12, 2026. Link. … [Read more...]
Mastering cat grooming
Cat grooming isn’t just about doing, it’s also about watching, listening and getting real-time feedback, says Lynn Paolillo, a master cat groomer. While teaching cat grooming to students, she shares that having another experienced cat groomer in the room doesn’t mean they are there to help you, but to increase the amount of brain power available for problem-solving. Source: … [Read more...]
Defining exercise that is satisfying for dogs
Includes Commercial Content Discussing the importance of exercise quality, Stephanie Vichinsky shares how the right kinds of exercise can help manage behavior issues and promote happiness in dogs. She references the hormonal benefits of quality exercise, which should resonate with dog owners. Consider borrowing some of her dialogue for those uncomfortable discussions with … [Read more...]
Understanding pet parents’ concerns about their pets
Calling it “petuition,” December 2025 work from Talker Research has found the average pet parent worries about how happy their pets are 11 times per day, and worries about their pets’ health 10 times per day. Key findings included: Ignoring meals (35 percent) Having mobility issues (34 percent) Scratching or self-grooming more often (25 percent) The research, … [Read more...]