Conference sees launch of 14 new products
Image: NAVC Conference
Our correspondents attended this year's NAVC conference in Orlando, which is not only the first veterinary conference of the year, but also one of the world's largest. Nearly 16,000 people attended this year's hugely successful event, including 6,000 vets, 561 practice managers and 865 students.
As the first veterinary conference of the calendar year, the NAVC conference saw the launch of the latest products, which were displayed in the exhibit halls from 20-23 January. Over the last few weeks we have been updating our blog with some of the revolutionary products we saw at the event.
One of the new products we saw was Seresto - an eight-month flea and tick control that comes in an innovative collar form. Introduced by Bayer HealthCare the treatment uses a patented formula to kill ticks and fleas within 48-hours, effective for eight months. The collar uses sustained release technology to continually secrete imidacloprid and flumethrin in low concentrations. According to Bayer the collar gets pets closer to year-round protection, as owners no longer have to remember monthly treatments.
Another product launched at the event offers a new approach to the management of osteoarthritis, using a patented ingredient named UC-II. Recent research has indicated that a major perpetuating factor in the condition is autoimmune inflammatory attacks to the joint in response to exposed joint cartilage. The new product from Sogeval Laboratories Inc., uses immunomodulator UC-II to desensitise the organism to cartilage proteins, thereby preventing further damage and pain.
The event also saw the launch of new long-lasting liquid bandage CutoGuard. According to manufacturers the bandage requires just a single professional application, which relieves the pressure of daily home care on clients. The bandage also contains a bitterant to prevent licking and chewing, and forms a flexible, durable barrier coating.
We saw a range of other exciting new products while at the event, such as ULTRA Duramune, the very first 0.5ml canine vaccine line, offering improved patient comfort and better purification processes. Bio-Medical Services introduced an entirely needle-free treatment for allergies, named ACTT Allergy Drops. These use a sublingual immunotherapy treatment that gradually builds up the body's tolerance to sensitising allergens, and allow treatment to be tailored to the temperament of the patient and lifestyle of the owner.
The highly successful conference was a perfect opportunity for networking, learning and finding out about the latest veterinary products and providers, with attendees from over 70 different countries, and more than 350 nationally renowned speakers. For more details about these products and many more, see the NAVC New Product Gallery.
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.
