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Elanco closes Bayer Animal Health deal
"Increased time at home has changed the long-term relationship between pets and their owners" - Elanco.
Acquisition triples Elanco's international pet health business.

Elanco Animal Health Incorporated has completed the acquisition of Bayer Animal Health in a deal worth $6.89 billion.

The transaction elevates Elanco’s pet business to approximately 50 per cent of revenues and almost triples the company’s international pet health business. It also broadens Elanco’s pet parasiticide portfolio with topical treatments and collars.

Jeff Simmons, president and CEO of Elanco commented: “Nearly two years into our journey as an independent company, we have made significant progress in creating a purpose-driven, independent global company dedicated to animal health – all while weathering the century’s most significant animal and human health pandemics: African Swine Fever and COVID-19."

He added: “Food supply disruptions and increasing unemployment are driving food security challenges around the world. At the same time, research shows increased time at home has changed the long-term relationship between pets and their owners, as pets increasingly provide valuable emotional support. We know making life better for animals, simply makes life better.”

The deal brings together complementary farm animal portfolios that position Elanco to serve an even broader spectrum of the industry. It also adds several anchor cattle brands, enhances the company’s global bio-protection portfolio, and expands the company’s aqua presence into warm water fish.

Mr Simmons continued: “Most importantly, today is about the farmers, veterinarians, and pet owners we serve. If COVID-19 has made anything clear – it’s that the world has never needed animals and the work farmers and veterinarians do more.

“Together, we are better positioned to advocate for our customers, to deliver solutions to their greatest unmet needs, so they can keep healthy, sustainably sourced meat, milk, fish and eggs in the centre of the dinner table and healthy, active pets in the centre of families. Together, we have the potential to improve animal health and the lives of billions.”

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
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RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.