The FDA recently approved a gene-editing technology used to make swine resistant to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS), a highly contagious disease for which there is no effective treatment. The technology, developed by the Pig Improvement Company (PIC), is among the first to receive FDA approval for the gene editing of commercial livestock in the United States and will be used to breed PRRS-resistant swine.

The FDA approval, which was granted on April 30, 2025, deems the technology to be safe and effective. The gene edit could provide a new tool for farmers and pork producers managing PRRS. “We have spent years conducting extensive research, validating our findings and working with the FDA to gain approval,” Matt Culbertson, chief operating officer of PIC, said in a news release.

“Today marks a major milestone for consumers, farmers and the entire pork industry who have desperately hoped for a solution to PRRS.”

In breeding animals, PRRS can cause reproductive impairment or failure, in addition to causing respiratory disease in pigs of any age, leading to premature death.

 The disease also suppresses the immune system of pigs, making these animals more prone to secondary infections that may require antibiotics.

PRRS is the most economically impactful disease in US swine production since classical swine fever was eradicated.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), the disease caused a loss of approximately $1.2 billion annually in the US pork industry production from 2016 to 2020, representing an 80% increase compared to the previous decade.

 Still, PRRS affects swine globally, particularly in major swine-raising countries.

Beyond its financial toll, PRRS affects animal welfare, increases the need for antibiotics, and raises the environmental footprint of raising swine. “Addressing PRRS can allow us to improve animal welfare and reduce the environmental impact of raising pigs,” said Banks Baker, global director of product sustainability, in a new release.

 “Recent research indicates that PRRS increases the need for antibiotics by more than 200%. Plus, a recent ISO-conformant lifecycle assessment found that eliminating PRRS could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 5% in the US.”

According to PIC, Colombia and Brazil have “already issued positive determinations” for the technology behind PRRS-resistant pigs and will regulate them as they would any other pigs.

“We are committed to the responsible and intentional introduction of the PRRS-resistant pig around the globe,” said Culbertson.1 “Gaining FDA approval for the technology is an important step in this process, and we are working with additional countries to gain regulatory approval and protect global trade prior to initiating sales and delivery.”

PIC receives FDA approval for technology used to breed PRRS-resistant pigs. News release. Pig Improvement Company. April 30, 2025. Accessed May 16, 2025. 

https://www.pic.com/pic-receives-fda-approval-for-technology-used-to-breed-prrs-resistant-pigs/

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS). Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Accessed May 16, 2025. 

https://vetmed.iastate.edu/vdpam/about/focus-areas/swine/swine-disease-manual/index-diseases/porcine-reproductive#:~:text=PRRS%20is%20an%20acronym%20(porcine,in%20pigs%20of%20any%20age

FDA approves gene-editing tech creating PRRS-resistant pigs. American Veterinary Medical Association. May 6, 2025. Accessed May 16, 2025. https://www.avma.org/news/fda-approves-gene-editing-tech-creating-prrs-resistant-pigs

Articles

The technology will be used to breed PRRS-resistant swine


FDA approves gene-editing technology for swine

Vet Watch Update: NWS

This is a VetWatch update at DVM360. I’m Christopher Lee.

, the New World screwworm. I get asked whether or not there is a realistic potential for this fly to be hitting the US in the next year or so. Well, let’s take a look at the math to help answer that question. In addition, we can take a look at some of the math on white-tailed deer to help explain the overall devastation that this fly can impart.

If we take a look at the white-tailed deer population in the 1940s and ’50s, and compare it to the 1970s—after New World Screwworm was eradicated—we are looking at nearly a 10-fold difference in increase in population. Now, the eradication of screwworm was not the only factor that helped the deer rebound, but it was a major factor in this change.

 from the US back in the ’60s? Well, to understand that, 

, the New World screwworm, has an Achilles heel—or Achilles tarsus, as it were. And that is that the female only has sex one time. Thus, if you can release irradiated, sterile males into the environment, when they have sex with the female, that female will no longer be able to produce viable eggs. And that is how it was done.

How many irradiated flies do you need in order to do this? Well, back in the 1960s, we had three laboratories producing 800 million flies per week—and that was out of the combined efforts of a laboratory in Panama, Mission, Texas, and Chiapa de Corzo (near Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas, Mexico). And through that, we had 800 million. Well, what is being done now? Right now, the only one that is currently still working is COPEG in Panama. They are at max capacity and they’re releasing up to 100 million pupae per week into the environment through ground boxes as well as air release.

And while we truly appreciate those efforts, that is not stopping the motion. We have been seeing New World screwworm moving up from South America, through every single country in Central America, and has touched down into Mexico. Currently, we are looking at the numbers nearly doubling every couple of weeks. It has gone from a couple of sightings of New World screwworm in Mexico, to dozens, to now over 400 different sightings of this fly in Mexico. Very scary. There are only two Mexican states separating confirmed New World screwworm cases from the U.S. border.

So what does this mean? Well, it means that invasion is likely. We are likely to see the New World screwworm here this year, if not next. It also means that there is the potential to create devastation—to our protein production, to our pets, to ourselves, and to the wildlife. Thus, we need to keep vigilant. If there’s any concern that you may be seeing this fly, there are many labs that will help identify maggots or adults.

Since our last New World Screwworm video, cases in Mexico have surged past 1,400. There is now only one Mexican state separating confirmed New World screwworm cases from the Texas border. And over the weekend, due to this, the U.S. halted all cattle imports from Mexico—a move that could impact anywhere from 1.2 to 1.8 million head of cattle annually. That’s a major hit to our beef supply chain. And this isn’t just a foreign animal disease threat—it’s actively knocking at our door.

So stay alert, know how to recognize it, and do not hesitate to report any potential cases. Thank you for tuning in to Vet Watch, only at DVM360, where what you know today protects everybody tomorrow.

Videos

Amid a surge to over 1,400 confirmed New World screwworm cases in Mexico and an immediate US suspension of live cattle imports, Christopher Lee, DVM, MPH, DACVPM, warns this parasitic fly could breach the southern border by year’s end, posing serious risks to livestock, pets, wildlife, and even human health

Vet Watch Update: New World screwworm

Fetch Nashville is officially 2 weeks away! As we get closer, we know everyone is reviewing the agenda to pick the sessions that they want to attend and the faculty they want to see. To help navigate the agenda, we have complied a short list of sessions to check out during the conference just for you!

Not registered for Fetch Nashville yet, there is still time. Check out the Fetch Nashville 

 to register today, plus see what else is happening at the show!

AI 101: Unlocking the Power and playing by the Digital Rules

Kick off Day 1 with this 7:00 AM lecture presented by Jennifer Guli, marketing director at Mount Laurel Animal Hospital in Mount Laurel, New Jersey to hear her give attendees a comprehensive understanding of artificial intelligence, including its applications and potential impact on the veterinary industry, plus how to utilize it to inspire creativity and innovation at your veterinary clinic.

Litterbox Lessons: Keeping Cats in the Litterbox

House soiling is a common medical and behavioral issue in cats—and a leading cause of surrender. From 10:45-11:45 PM, Tabitha Kucera, CCBC, RVT, KPA-CTP, VTS (Behavior), will cover key litterbox strategies, how do identify common triggers, and how to address the unique needs of senior or disabled feline patients. Through the lecture, attendees will also learn how to better support and educate clients through practical solutions to help keep the client and pets human-animal bond.

Transfusion Medical Considerations for the Hemoabdomen

After enjoying your complimentary lunch, from 1:15-2:15 PM Adesola Odunayo, DVM, MS, DACVECC, will give attendees an overview of the different blood types, products, and transfusion reactions veterinary professionals should consider when treating the hemoabdomen patient.

Converging on Consensus? New Recommendations for Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention of Leptospirosis

Jane Sykes, BVSc, PhD, MPH, MBA, FNAP, DAVCIM (SAIM), will review the 2024 American College of Veterinary internal Medicine Leptospirosis Consensus Statement recommendations and expert insights on what has changed. Each attendee will also learn the current day recommendations on diagnosing, treating, and handling suspect cases of Leptospirosis. This lecture will take place from 2:30-3:30 PM.

Kelly Detweiler and Peter Weinstein, DVM ,MBA, are one of the closing sessions for day 1, with their lecture taking place from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM. In their lecture, this duo will review what happens when a DEA representatives come to your clinic and how to make the best first impression, since there is no second chance. Attendees will learn what to say and how you say it, what systems to have in place to make sure the right people know the answers to any questions, or where to find them, and more.

So, You Want to Be a Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) in Anesthesia

One of the lectures that is kicking of day 2 of Fetch Nashville at 7:00 Mike Barlette, DVM ,MS, PhD, DACVAA, Tasha McNerney, CVT, CVPP, VTS (Anesthesia & Analgesia), and Kristen Ward, BSN-RN, RVT, VTS (Anesthesia & Analgesia), will provide an overview of the requirements for being a Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) in Anesthesia and a Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioner (CVPP) as well as gain a step by step understanding of the credentialing process.

Diagnostics and Procedures: Tips and Tricks for the Exotic Animal Practitioner

Following the day 2 keynote address, Jeffrey R. Applegate Jr., DVM, DACZM, will encourage attendees to think outside of the box to and utilize creative ways to treat and monitor the nontraditional pets that come into your practice. Throughout the lecture, Applegate will offer attendees specialized techniques to help them elevate the standard of medicine for small, or difficult, exotic pet species.

Are no shows a problem at your practice? If so, join Wendy S. Myers, CVJ, from 1:15-2:15 PM to hear 4 strategies practice owners can implement into their practices to help end this costly, and rude, behavior. Myers will teach attendees when to send appointment confirmations and what they should say as well as a form for clients to completely in advance to secure their appoints, and more.

Choosing the right nutrition for each patient is complex, and so is understanding how pet food is made. This session presented by Taylor Root, VMD, will take attendees on a deep dive into the full lifecycle of pet food—from formulation by board-certified nutritionists to manufacturing, safety, and traceability. Attendees will explore how ingredients are selected, how processing methods affect nutrition, and how tools like the NOVA system and WSAVA guidelines support informed food choices. This lecture will take place from 2:30-3:30 PM.

Electrocardiography plays a vital role in managing cardiac conditions and monitoring anesthesia. William Rausch, DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology) will cover the essentials of interpreting canine and feline ECGs, along with advanced diagnostic insights. During the lecture, Rausch will show real case examples to highlight how ECGs provide critical information for clinical decision-making. Rausch will begin his lecture at 4:00 PM ET.

To close out the conference, Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, chief veterinary officer, dvm360, will join 7 other faculty members, including Christopher Pachel, DVM, DACVB, CABC, Fred Wininger, VMD, MS, DACVIM (Neurology), and Shadi Ireifej, DVM, DACVS-SA, to test help attendees put their knowledge to the test with this game show style event. Attendees will team up with Fetch Faculty and fellow colleagues to compete for prizes, and earn continuing education credits along the way. This is an event you do not want to miss, so join us and see which team is crowned the Ultimate Fetch Fanatic Champion.

Here are some of the lectures you will find at the upcoming Fetch conference

Fetch Nashville 2025: Session sneak peek

This content is sponsored by Antech Diagnostics.

, our host Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, welcomes special guest Kelly Mitchell, DVM, DVSc, Bsc, DACVIM (SAIM), to discuss all things feline heartworm. Throughout the episode, Mitchell highlights the need for a multimodal approach to testing, limitations of microfilaria testing in feline patients, treatment focusing on managing clinical signs and support care, and why prevention is crucial. 

Below is a partial transcript, edited lightly for clarity. 

The presentation that cats present for heartworm is definitely different [from] that of dogs. So at a practical level, how is heartworm's clinical presentation different in cats vs dogs?

Kelly Mitchell, DVM, DVSc, Bsc, DACVIM (SAIM

 Cats are not the natural definitive host for heartworm, and that results in a few differences in the pathophysiology of their disease, and a few...important differences when we compare them [with] dogs. Infection intensity in cats is often lower, so maybe only 1 to 2 worms and single-sex infections are thought to be more common in cats as compared [with] dogs. Now, considering cats [have a] generally smaller body size, the American Heartworm Society guidelines emphasize that even 1 to 2 [worms are] going to represent a significant infection burden in a cat. But to your point...the clinical signs of infection in cats are also very different than dogs, and I think in part, it leads to how this is a more elusive or difficult diagnosis in cats. So the clinical signs [in] cats [are] going to range from the obvious and the significant to the more subtle and nonspecific. 

While we certainly want to be cognizant of the obvious and the significant—those are going to include sudden death or a per-acute syndrome of severe respiratory or neurological signs, and sometimes cats will show clinical signs related to aberrant worm migration. Those are the obvious and the significant, but what we don't want to forget about are the subtle and the nonspecific. So, signs of chronic respiratory disease are most common, [such as] cough [and] increased respiratory effort or rate. Cats may also show nonspecific signs, [such as] lethargy, anorexia, vomiting, weight loss—clinical signs that can also be intermittent, right?

Thinking about it from that big picture, we do want to make sure that we're cognizant of these more subtle clinical signs and the differences between cats and dogs, just so that it's always on our list.... If we're not thinking about it, then we're going to miss that opportunity to diagnose it.

Podcasts

Learn more on heartworm in feline patients, plus what has been updated in the American Heartworm Society guidelines on this episode of The Vet Blast Podcast, presented by dvm360.

What you should know about heartworm in cats and the updated AHS guidelines

As veterinary professionals, a proactive client education and management approach can profoundly improve the quality and healthspan of our patients’ lives, starting in puppyhood and continuing through end-of-life care.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common cause of chronic pain, affecting at least 1 in 5 dogs and 40% to 90% of cats during their lifetime.

 Yet, many cases remain undiagnosed, as clients often mistake subtle signs of discomfort for normal aging. Early symptoms, such as reluctance to exercise, difficulty rising, or behavioral changes, can be easily overlooked, leading to delayed intervention and unnecessary suffering. The consequences are significant: chronic pain, reduced mobility, muscle atrophy, weight gain, and a diminished quality of life, sometimes culminating in euthanasia sooner than would have been necessary with appropriate treatment.

Working exclusively in end-of-life care, Caring Pathways professionals have seen an overwhelming number of families who would have benefited from more extensive discussions regarding arthritis management in the early stages of the disease. Importantly, OA can affect dogs and cats of all ages, not just seniors, with a notable proportion of young dogs already showing radiographic evidence of disease.

Veterinary teams are uniquely positioned to make a difference. Early detection and intervention are critical, as OA is a degenerative, incurable disease that can only be managed, not reversed. We can slow disease progression and maximize comfort by routinely assessing mobility, educating clients about early warning signs, and implementing individualized, multimodal management plans.

 Client education is paramount, and owners need guidance to recognize subtle behavioral changes and understand that early treatment can prolong their pet’s active years. Veterinary professionals must confidently communicate the prevalence, risk factors, and management strategies for OA, ensuring that pain and mobility are treated as vital signs during every exam.

Encouraging pet families to begin targeted exercise routines, focused on balance and strength, and training pets to accept mobility aids—especially ramps and mobility aid harnesses—before those pets begin experiencing significant pain, would alleviate many struggles families face in the later years of their pet's life. Utilizing species-specific disease screening tools, validated pain scales, and quality-of-life tools can help facilitate conversation and collaboration between clients and veterinary teams.

Founded by Hannah Capon, MA, VetMB, MRCVS, Canine Arthritis Management (CAM) is an educational initiative dedicated to transforming the way arthritis is recognized and managed in dogs. CAM’s mission is to provide education and support to both professionals and caregivers, promoting early identification and evidence-based, multimodal management of OA.

Practical guides for diagnosis and long-term management

Educational talks, webinars, and professional development

Teleguidance services for tailored case support

A strong advocacy for changing perceptions of pain and OA in dogs

CAM’s vision is to reduce unnecessary suffering and delay elective euthanasia by fostering a collaborative approach between veterinary professionals and caregivers, ensuring dogs live longer, more comfortable lives.

Founded by Kristin Kirkby Shaw, DVM, PhD, MS, DACVS-SA, DACVSMR, Canine Arthritis Resources and Education (CARE) provides free, expert-developed resources for both clients and veterinary professionals.

CARE’s offerings include the following:

Articles, videos, and exercises to aid in early detection and management

Tools, forms, and educational materials for clinical use

RACE-approved on-demand webinars for vets and technicians on how to diagnose and manage OA

A bridge between knowledge and action, empowering veterinarians to deliver comprehensive OA care even beyond the exam room

CARE’s resources help veterinary teams continue the OA conversation with clients, supporting evidence-guided treatment and encouraging proactive management to keep dogs active and thriving.

Arthritis awareness is not a 1-month campaign—it is an ongoing commitment to elevating the standard of care for our canine patients. By leveraging the expertise and resources of groups like CAM and CARE, veterinary professionals can achieve the following:

Stay updated on best practices and consensus guidelines for OA management

Equip clients with the knowledge to recognize pain early and seek timely intervention

Educate clients on at-home training and exercise tools to help prepare for a possible arthritis diagnosis

Foster a collaborative, supportive environment for lifelong canine health

Let’s champion arthritis awareness in our practices—not just in May but every day. Together, we can give dogs more years of comfort, mobility, and joy.

Johnston SA. Osteoarthritis. Joint anatomy, physiology, and pathobiology. 

. 1997;27(4):699-723. doi:10.1016/s0195-5616(97)50076-3

Slingerland LI, Hazewinkel HA, Meij BP, Picavet P, Voorhout G. Cross-sectional study of the prevalence and clinical features of osteoarthritis in 100 cats. 

. 2011;187(3):304-309. doi:10.1016/j.tvjl.2009.12.014

Lascelles BD, Henry JB 3rd, Brown J, et al. Cross-sectional study of the prevalence of radiographic degenerative joint disease in domesticated cats. 

. 2010;39(5):535-544. doi:10.1111/j.1532-950X.2010.00708.x

Enomoto M, de Castro N, Hash J, et al. Prevalence of radiographic appendicular osteoarthritis and associated clinical signs in young dogs. 

. 2024;14(1):2827. doi:10.1038/s41598-024-52324-9

Cachon T, Frykman O, Innes JF, et al. COAST Development Group's international consensus guidelines for the treatment of canine osteoarthritis. 

. 2023;10:1137888. doi:10.3389/fvets.2023.1137888

May is Arthritis Awareness Month, which is a good time to review our approach to this common diagnosis in small animals.

Raising the standard: Arthritis awareness in veterinary practice

In modern veterinary practices, where stakes are high and time is scarce, productivity and efficiency are more important than ever. Many practices are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) tools for support. But with AI evolving rapidly, will it eventually replace veterinary staff members?

The human touch is central to veterinary care. AI is best used to augment

human effort, not replace it. When thoughtfully integrated, AI can streamline operations, reduce cognitive load, and improve client service, all while empowering veterinary teams to do more of what they do best: deliver compassionate, hands-on care.

Augmenting multiple roles in the practice

AI can be a powerful tool to use across the entire veterinary practice, from the reception desk to the exam room.

 benefit from AI-powered diagnostic support tools such as 

 that analyze imaging and lab results, flagging potential abnormalities. These tools help speed up diagnosis and reduce oversight, but they don’t replace the clinician’s judgment—they enhance it. Think of AI as a second pair of eyes (that don’t get tired).



 can save time with AI scribe tools like 

 that record patient exams and then automatically complete SOAP notes and electronic medical records. By automating documentation, these scribe tools free up staff to focus more on the client and patient during the appointment and save hours each day that were once devoted to medical documentation. Some of these AI scribe tools even produce accurate patient dental charts, which is a huge time-saver.



 can rely on AI tools like AVA Petpawer to handle appointment scheduling, prescription refill requests, and routine questions. This reduces phone traffic and allows front desk teams to focus on more nuanced, customer-facing tasks that only humans can do.



 can harness the increased productivity that AI generates for their teams by opening up additional appointments, reducing overtime, and boosting the overall well-being of the veterinary staff. When patients are taken care of, medical notes are done, and scheduling is smooth, the whole clinic can function more efficiently.



The human element: Where AI cannot compete

Despite its speed and data-handling superpowers, AI can’t replicate the emotional intelligence, intuition, or human connection that defines veterinary care. Comforting an anxious client, assessing subtle behavioral cues, and making ethical decisions are all inherently human tasks. In fact, AI’s presence in the clinic can increase the need for skilled, empathetic veterinary professionals because more efficient clinics can typically see more patients each day.

Some practices have been able to reduce the time spent on medical records and the length of appointments, increasing the number of patients that can be seen. Fillmore Animal Hospital in California used this strategy and was able to increase revenue despite a staff shortage and reduced clinic hours.

It’s easy to get caught up in the hype, but AI isn’t magic. Just like any other tool, the value of AI depends on how it’s used. Practices adopting AI should set clear goals: Are you looking to improve appointment flow? Save time on SOAP documentation? Reduce burnout? Speed up diagnostics? Aligning AI solutions with practice needs ensures meaningful results.

It’s also essential to invest in training. Staff members need to understand what AI can (and cannot) do and how to use it effectively. The most successful practices treat AI as a team member that requires oversight, feedback, and updates.

AI isn’t the end of veterinary jobs; it’s the evolution of how we practice medicine. By taking over the time-consuming, repetitive, or data-heavy tasks such as SOAP notes and medical documentation, AI allows veterinary professionals to operate at the top of their licenses, focus on patient care, and find more balance in their workday. AI isn't replacing the team; it’s releasing them so they can focus on the heart of veterinary medicine.

is a practicing relief veterinarian and lead veterinarian at 

, an artificial intelligence (AI) scribe for veterinary professionals. She leverages her experience across diverse clinics to design prompts and fine-tune tools for clinical accuracy, driving real-world AI scribe adoption in veterinary practice.

Technology cannot replicate humans’ emotional intelligence.