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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 11th April 2018
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Mars Petcare acquires OptiGen, LLC
The acquisition includes an extensive biobank of more than 150,000 samples collected over two decades.

Acquisition includes licenses to a portfolio of genetic disease tests

Mars Petcare has taken possession of OptiGen LLC, A DNA diagnostics company specialising in canine inherited eye disorders.

The acquisition includes exclusive licenses to a portfolio of genetic disease tests patented in the U.S, Australia and a number of European countries. It also includes an extensive biobank of more than 150,000 samples collected over two decades, representing various canine eye diseases.

Mars Petcare said they will use the samples to find new genetic health markers for dogs.  
"Through our pioneering Wisdom Health business, Mars Petcare is leading the discovery of new genetic markers for pet health. As our scientists seek to improve the understanding of the genetic basis of pet health and disease, this acquisition will contribute to the development of personalized veterinary care," said Leonid Sudakov, president of Connected Solutions at Mars Petcare.

"We see our continued efforts to contribute to the ground-breaking companion animal genetics science as a great way to deliver on our purpose: 'A Better World for Pets'."

Cynthia Cole, general manager of Wisdom Health at Mars Petcare added: "We're at a pivotal time in companion animal genetic research, and with this acquisition, we will add to the growing body of knowledge to help veterinarians' ability to predict and treat inherited eye disorders for dogs."

"This acquisition is a welcome and natural evolution of OptiGen's 20-year history of working with conscientious dog owners, breeders, clubs and canine health registries around the world," said Sue Pearce-Kelling, OptiGen's President.

"OptiGen's and Wisdom Health's shared commitment to providing the highest quality of DNA testing for dogs while also supporting research aimed at identifying new genetic markers for inherited diseases, as well as our mutual respect for intellectual property where it exists in the field, makes this an excellent fit."

Mars Petcare acquired OptiGen on 10 April 218 and the companies will manage the transition over the course of 2018. 

Image (C) Mars Petcare

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Cold-water dip to raise funds for Vetlife

News Story 1
 The veterinary mental health charity Vetlife is inviting the veterinary community to join it for a sponsored cold-water dip.

The event will take place at Walpole Bay, Margate, on 17 May during Mental Health Awareness Week. Participants of all abilities can join in the challenge and are advised to bring a towel, a hot drink, a snack, and warm clothes to get changed into afterwards.

Those taking part are being asked to try to raise 100 each to support the work of the charity.

Details about how to take part can be found here. 

Click here for more...
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Bluetongue low vector period ends

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With winter over, Defra is planning for a possible increase in cases as midges become more active. It has warned that farms along the east coast of England from Norfolk to Kent, and along the south coast from Kent to Devon, are at highest risk from infected midges blown over from northern Europe.

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Farmers are asked to continue to frequently monitor their livestock and ensure their animals and land are registered with the Animal and Plant Health Agency.