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Merial acquired by Boehringer Ingelheim
The businesses have combined to form the new Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Business Unit.
Combined animal health business is the world’s second largest
 
Boehringer Ingelheim has announced its acquisition of Merial, making it the second largest animal health business in the world.

The businesses have combined to form the new Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Business Unit, which is headed up by Joachim Hasenmaier.

“Our complementary portfolios make these two businesses a perfect fit,” Hasenmaier said. “As one animal health business, Boehringer Ingelheim has the increased expertise and resources to offer more innovation and a broader range of animal health solutions across the Middle East, Turkey and Africa (META) region.

“We are passionate about animal health, and we share a common vision. We recognise the critical importance of serving animal health needs globally, with a focus on prevention. When animals are healthy, humans are healthier too, and we commit to making the industry even better at improving both human and animal health.”

Growth in the META region will be led by Herbert Pohle, the newly appointed head of animal health operations. Pohle is based in the United Arab Emirates and will oversee the company’s integration, growth and development into a robust animal health business in the region, with a mandate to drive market leadership in sales, innovation and customer service.

Pohle said: “This is an exciting time for the Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health business and for the industry in the region. We have a dedicated and strong team throughout the META, and we will work towards improving human and animal health.”

Hasenmaier added: “We will continue to invest in our leadership positions in equine and pets and to strengthen and build in cattle, poultry and other livestock. And we will continue our special focus on prevention as a leader in vaccines and anti-parasitics, while ensuring we address the spectrum of health treatment needs in the region.

“We want to support farmers to raise and care for animals in a healthy, sustainable, and financially viable way that builds confidence with consumers. We want to help pets live longer and better. And we commit to maintaining the excellent service our customers and partners expect throughout the region. As a family-owned business, we can take the long-term perspective to achieve this.”

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.