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PetMedix and Zoetis to collaborate on antibody therapies
"Collaborating with PetMedix complements our own research and development activities, and we are pleased to be working with them to explore areas of unmet clinical needs in pets" - Robert J. Polzer, Zoetis.

Firms will use transgenic platforms for antibody discovery.

PetMedix has joined forces with Zoetis to develop new species-specific
animal monoclonal antibody therapies (mAbs) using its proprietary transgenic platforms.

Through the partnership, PetMedix will carry out discovery activities against a number of key targets, while Zoetis will have exclusive rights to develop and bring these therapies to market.

Having already brought three novel mAbs to market, Zoetis is a leader in companion animal antibody therapeutics, including fully species-specific antibodies.

PetMedix chief executive Dr Tom Weaver commented: "We are excited to be partnering with Zoetis. Bringing together our unique pet antibody discovery engine with their proven ability to not just develop antibodies, but also make them a commercial success, is set to be a winning combination."

While many technologies have been used to develop human therapeutic antibodies, 40 years of research highlights the benefits of antibodies which are 100 per cent species-matched to the patient.

PetMedix is looking to build on this success for companion animals. Its Ky9™ and Felyne™ platforms were developed in the same way as the leading human transgenic platforms. The collaboration also marks the third publicly-announced deal Zoetis has made with companies using transgenic platforms for antibody discovery.

Zoetis executive vice president and president Robert J. Polzer, said: "At Zoetis, we are committed to continuing our leadership to develop and discover new therapeutic antibodies that can help pets live longer, healthier lives. Collaborating with PetMedix complements our own research and development activities, and we are pleased to be working with them to explore areas of unmet clinical needs in pets."

Image (C) PetMedix.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.