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Veterinary wholesaler bought by US company
Patterson Companies acquires National Veterinary Services

The UK's largest veterinary distributor, National Veterinary Services (NVS), has been conditionally sold to US firm, Patterson Companies.

Patterson Companies, which supplies dental and diagnostic products, vaccines, veterinary equipment and pharmaceuticals, is to acquire all outstanding shares of NVS for £87.5million.

Wholly owned by Dechra Pharmaceuticals, NVS is reported to have had revenues of more than £315million for the year ended June 30, 2013.

As NVS becomes a stand-alone subsidiary of Patterson Companies, the UK wholesaler's current managing director, Martin Riley, will continue in his role which he has held for eight years.

Commenting on the development, CEO of Dechra Ian Page, said: "It will create a focused, international, branded veterinary products business, with the resources to pursue further organic and acquisitive growth and thereby generate increased value for shareholders…

"I believe that Patterson's international presence and sole focus on services will ensure a strong future for these businesses."

The agreement is subject to approval by Dechra shareholders and the closing date has been set for the middle of this month (August).

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Greyhound Board announces change to vaccination guidance

News Story 1
 The Greyhound Board of Great Britain has published new vaccination guidance, with all greyhounds registered from 1 January, 2027 required to have the L4 leptospirosis vaccination, rather than L2.

The change comes in response to the reduced availability of the 'L2' Leptospirosis vaccine across the UK, and aims to support best biosecurity practice across the racing greyhound population.

GBGB veterinary director Simon Gower, said "While rare, Leptospirosis is a serious infectious disease that can affect both dogs and humans, so it is vital that we offer our greyhounds the broadest possible protection.  

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News Shorts
Free webinar explores congenital heart disease in dogs

A free webinar is to provide veterinary professionals, dog breeders and pet owners an new insights into congenital heart disease.

Chris Linney, a cardiology specialist and Veterinary Cardiovascular Society (VSC) member, will present the webinar from 7.00pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, 12 November.

Dr Linney will explore the types, causes and clinical presentation of congenital heart conditions. This will include diagnostic approaches, treatment pathways and emerging research opportunities.

The session is the third to be organised by The Kennel Club, with the VCS, following an introductory webinar and a talk on acquired heart disease. Dr Linney's webinar consists of a one-hour presentation, followed by a 30-minute question and answer session.

Dr Linney said: "This webinar will be an opportunity to deepen understanding - not just of the diseases themselves, but of how breeders, vets and owners can work together to support affected dogs and improve outcomes for future generations."

Click here to register for the webinar.