Effective leadership in the pet and veterinary industry plays a fundamental role in maintaining the efficiency of businesses. Their strategies propel growth, encourage creativity, and champion sustainability. This impacts the welfare of numerous animals and their caregivers.

Several veterinary businesses have recently announced new appointments. Some of these individuals experiencing career progression include the following:

Fan Wang, PhD, chief technology officer at PETLIBRO

PETLIBRO, a global pet technology company, appointed Fan Wang as its latest chief technology officer. Wang brings extensive of knowledge to lead PETLIBRO's ongoing endeavors in the pet technology sector with a history in advancing innovation in artificial intelligence, robotics, data systems, and wireless technology. In his new role, Wang will spearhead the advancement of AI and robotics technology, assembling a team to redefine the company's product range and enhance connectivity for both pets and their owners.

"PETLIBRO's remarkable growth since its inception in 2019 and its ascent to the forefront of its industry has motivated me to contribute positively. We've already initiated assessments of potential AI integration opportunities within PETLIBRO's current and upcoming product ranges. I am eager to address our customers' requirements and guide the team towards innovative solutions driven by creative engineering and cutting-edge technologies," expressed Wang in a news release.

"To have someone of Fan's pedigree join the PETLIBRO team demonstrates our commitment to forward-thinking, innovative products that enhance well-being for humans and pets, alike," said York Wu, founder and CEO of PETLIBRO in the release.

 "As we continue to innovate and grow, Fan's expertise will be invaluable in furthering our mission to design tech-forward products for the intertwined lives of pets and their people."

Allison Giorgio, MBA, chief marketing officer at Wellness Pet Company

Allison Giorgio, MBA, chief marketing officer at Wellness Pet Company. (Photo courtesy of Wellness Pet Company)

Wellness Pet Company, a pet nutrition developer, recently announced Allison Giorgio’s new role as chief marketing officer. Giorgio arrives with experience in brand and marketing tactics aimed at crafting memorable consumer experiences. As she joins the company's senior leadership, her role is to represent the consumer's perspective, ensuring cohesive and optimized touchpoints that deliver exceptional experiences for pet parents.

"Wellness Pet recognizes the critical roles marketing and communications play in creating memorable moments and messages that drive its business objectives and results," Giorgio said in a news release.

 "The scientifically proven products, commitment to wellbeing for pets and pet parents and people-first culture make the company incredibly exciting to join. I look forward to being part of this dynamic industry and working with the senior leadership and marketing teams to further foster meaningful connections between Wellness Pet and the pets and pet parents we serve."

"As we continue to provide premium nutrition options for cats and dogs, it's vital that we build our brand and engage with the next generation of pet parents in new and innovative ways," said Reed Howlett, CEO of Wellness Pet.

 "Allison brings deep integrated marketing capabilities and expertise to strengthen our current connections and relevancy with pet parents. We are eager to welcome her onto our senior leadership team to lead brand storytelling and consumer experiences that showcase our purpose-led operations: making the healthiest natural and nutritious food and treats for the pets that depend on us."

April Boyce, vice president of marketing at PetVivo Holdings

April Boyce, vice president of marketing at PetVivo Holdings. (Photo courtesy of PetVivo Holdings, Inc.)

PetVivo Holdings Inc, a biomedical device company that manufactures and commercializes medical devices and therapies for companion animals, expressed its enthusiasm in welcoming April Boyce as its newest vice president of marketing. Boyce’s role at PetVivo is enriched by her expertise in consumer-packaged goods, marketing, sales, strategic partnerships, and licensing. Her career has spanned more than two decades, and she has made significant contributions in positions at companies such as Procter & Gamble (P&G) and Clorox.

“I am delighted to join the PetVivo marketing team to assist in establishing broader awareness and understanding of their innovative veterinary medical device, Spryng with OsteoCushion Technology,” said Boyce in a news release.

 “It is incredibly exciting to join a company whose technology truly enhances the lives of companion animals.”

"We are thrilled to have April join the PetVivo team and apply her vast insight and expertise to introduce and enhance the overall awareness and image of PetVivo and the products PetVivo commercializes.” John Lai, CEO of PetVivo Holdings, Inc said in the release.

 “April brings a wealth of experience to our team as an expert in the marketing and promotion of innovative products."

Bryan Monninger, MBA, vice president of sales at PetVivo Holdings

Bryan Monninger, MBA, vice president of sales at PetVivo Holdings. (Photo courtesy of PetVivo Holdings, Inc.)

PetVivo Holdings is also including Bryan Monninger in its welcoming celebrations. As the new vice president of sales, Monninger will oversee PetVivo's sales and distribution divisions, concentrating on broadening the market acceptance of the company's Spryng with OsteoCushion Technology. Monninger has more than 20 years of experience in sales and marketing, acquired through senior executive roles at Novus International and Lintbells, as well as Fortune 500 firms.

“I see PetVivo having a tremendous competitive advantage and huge global opportunity in addressing unmet veterinary needs in the animal arthritis market,” expressed Monninger in a news release by the company.

 “Its internationally patented technology—which is grounded in science and supported by strong business and technical teams—is second to none. Through the broader application of this breakthrough medical technology, I believe we can truly enhance the lives of millions of companion animals and create better outcomes at lower cost for their owners.”

“We welcome Bryan’s proven sales skills and capabilities as we enter a pivotal stage in the commercialization of our proven solutions for healthier pet and equine mobility,” John Lai, CEO of PetVivo, said in the release. “We anticipate Bryan’s passion and drive for building product awareness and distribution, guided by his pragmatic and strategic approach to sales, will accelerate our growth and the expansion of our market reach across the US and abroad.”

Laurie Hess, DVM, editor-in-chief at and director of scientific affairs at Merck Veterinary Manual

Laurie Hess, DVM, editor-in-chief at and director of scientific affairs at Merck Veterinary Manual. (Photo courtesy of Merck Veterinary Manual)

At the Merck Manuals, a publisher of medical information, Laurie Hess has assumed the role of editor-in-chief of the Merck Veterinary Manual. Previously, Hess served as the lead exotic animal veterinarian at online pet product retailer Chewy. Prior to that, she held the position of Director of Veterinary Medicine at Petco, where she supervised animal care across more than 1500 stores nationwide. Additionally, she served as the Director of Pet Health & Nutrition at exotic animal food manufacturer ZuPreem.

“In my new position, I am honored to be collaborating with the nearly 400 distinguished experts in their fields,” said Hess in a news release.

 “Our goal is not only to expand and enhance this venerable reference, but to grow the number of users.”

Hess is a board-certified specialist in avian medicine. As such, her specialization is the care of birds and small exotic animals. She is one of approximately 100 avian specialists globally and has appeared as an expert in exotic pets on various television and radio programs. Moreover, she received her veterinary degree from Tufts University and completed a one-year internship followed by a two-year residency in avian and exotic animal medicine and surgery at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center (AMC) in New York City.

PETLIBRO accelerates AI and engineering prowess with appointment of Dr Fan Wang as chief technology officer. News release. PETLIBRO. May 30, 2024. Accessed June 14, 2024. 

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/petlibro-accelerates-ai-and-engineering-prowess-with-appointment-of-dr-fan-wang-as-chief-technology-officer-302158628.html

Wellness Pet Company welcomes Allison Giorgio as new chief marketing officer. News release. Wellness Pet Company. May 29, 2024. Accessed June 14, 2024. 

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/wellness-pet-company-welcomes-allison-giorgio-as-new-chief-marketing-officer-302157207.html

April Boyce joins PetVivo Holdings Inc, as the vice president of marketing. News release. PetVivo Holdings, Inc. June 4, 2024. Accessed June 14, 2024. 

https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2024/06/04/2893005/0/en/April-Boyce-Joins-PetVivo-Holdings-Inc-as-the-Vice-President-of-Marketing.html

PetVivo appoints former NOVUS and Colgate-Palmolive senior sales & marketing executive, Bryan Monninger, as VP of sales. News release. PetVivo Holdings, Inc. June 6, 2024. Accessed June 14, 2024. 

https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2024/06/06/2894551/0/en/PetVivo-Appoints-Former-NOVUS-and-Colgate-Palmolive-Senior-Sales-Marketing-Executive-Bryan-Monninger-as-VP-of-Sales.html

The Merck Veterinary Manual gets a new Editor-in-Chief. News release. Merck Manuals. May 2024. 

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/news/editorial/2024/05/31/16/53/welcomeletter?sccamp=sccamp

Articles

Check out the latest news in the veterinary industry with these 5 recent position promotions

Paws and profits: The most recent appointments in veterinary business

This content is sponsored by VCA Animal Hospitals

Veterinary medicine is a truly unique and complex industry. We work with patients who do not talk to us and may come in all forms and sizes, ranging from dogs and cats to elephants and geckos. This diversity is not only reflective of patients but can be found among our veterinary staff members as well. Unlike other fields of work, more than half of veterinary medicine staff are women and approximately 7% of the field are members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, asexual or allied, intersex (LGBTQAI) community, which is twice the national average of adults in the United States.

 Being a part of the LGBTQAI space has not only allowed me to connect with clients on a deeper level but has allowed me to bond with patients in a way that may not be as obvious. Just like our patients who have little to no voice in society, many members of the LGBTQAI community feel similarly today.

June is a very special month for me because it marks the beginning of summer, which is absolutely my favorite season! Along with that, June is also a time of celebration, recognition, and empowerment. Born and raised in New York, I am lucky to be in an environment that allows for freedom of expression when it comes to my sexuality. Unfortunately, this has not always been the case. I have faced discrimination from both clients and professionals of veterinary medicine. From snarky comments to passive-aggressive body language, prejudice toward the LGBTQAI community is still alive and well. Luckily, the overall support I’ve garnered outweighs and surpasses the bigotry and hate.

Every professional of veterinary medicine plays a part when it comes to ensuring safe spaces and promoting authenticity. A few ways of showing support include but are not limited to displaying LGBTQAI flags on clinic doors, including pronouns on staff name tags, and providing gender-neutral bathrooms. The most impactful way of showing direct support is to chat with a member of the LGBTQAI community.

Be curious and ask questions. I promise you that we share more similarities than differences, and so what if we are different? Differences create diversity, and through diversity, equity, and inclusion, we can all provide better care for our beloved furry friends.

1. A history of LGBTQ+ people in the veterinary profession. Pride Veterinary Medical Community. Accessed May 3, 2024. https://pridevmc.org/history/

In celebration of Pride Month, one dvm360 student ambassador shares how being in the LGBTQAI community helps him relate to fellow team members, clients, and even patients

Fostering LGBTQAI+ inclusion in veterinary medicine

Stokes Pharmacy and Bova Group (Bova) announced an exclusive partnership to offer a United States mad oral treatment for feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). The medication will treat the now once-fatal virus through a compounded preparation supported by Bova’s drug formula that has been used in clinical research studies globally.

“Made possible by our Bova partnership, Stokes Pharmacy will compound and sell the only oral formula identical to the Bova formula used in clinical studies across the globe. Our tablets were tested by Bova to meet their exact specifications. We are thrilled to bring this long-awaited treatment to the US and put FIP treatment back in the hands of the veterinarians," Michael Tursi, Stokes' president, in a news release.

 the drug formula created by Bova is used by Bova Aus and Bova UK, with exports to other countries with import permissions currently in place. There was previously no legal access to FIP oral treatment available in the US for veterinarians, according to the company. Because of this, pet owners have relied on options outside of a pharmacy or FDA-registered manufacturer to get treatment for their sick pets. Recognizing this gap in veterinary medicine, Bova vetted leaders within the industry to find the right partner to help bring their formula to the US market and created this partnership with Stokes Pharmacy.

“The introduction of FIP products to Australia and subsequently to the UK has led us on a transformative path. Collaborating with feline specialists around the world has propelled the progression of knowledge and comprehension of FIP. At Bova, we have been fortunate enough to support multiple clinical trials around the world on our unique formulation. This has helped give veterinarians confidence in using our formula and bringing the treatment of this fatal disease back under their control,” said Nick Bova, Bova’s managing director.

There are so many black-market options available out there and their quality is so varied. We wanted a partner who took quality and science as seriously as we do at Bova. Stokes Pharmacy is an impressive organization that prioritizes quality and science. Now, together, we can finally help save cats' lives across the USA who are impacted by this terrible disease," he continued.

“The FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine has alerted veterinarians that, while compounded GS-441524 is not legal, the agency does not intend to enforce new animal drug approval requirements for products compounded from GS-441524, when prescribed by a veterinarian for a specific cat patient for the treatment of Feline Infectious Peritonitis under the conditions listed in 

Guidance for Industry (GFI) #256 Compounding Animal Drugs from Bulk Drug Substances

. GS-441524 has been nominated by Stokes Pharmacy to be included on the list of animal drug bulk substances regarding GFI #256 office use and now has a place on the GFI under review list. Because of this, the compounded medication 50 mg tablets are eligible to be sold in hospitals for office sale in every state except Arkansas, Maine, Massachusetts, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, and West Virginia. However, according to the release, veterinarians who work in a state that does not allow GS-441524 for office use can prescribe the drug in the name of the patient.

“The FDA is aware of social media posts suggesting that compounded GS-441524 will be “legally” available in the United States starting June 1. The agency reminds compounding pharmacies, veterinarians and pet owners that animal drugs compounded from bulk drug substances are unapproved drugs and are not, in fact, legal. However, in GFI #256, the FDA has described certain conditions where the agency does not intend to take enforcement actions for compounded products for use in animals,” FDA shared, in an organizational release.

Compounded GS-441524 is now available by veterinary prescription for veterinary offices and individual patients in permitted states.

US-made compounded oral treatment for feline infectious peritonitis now available. News release. Stokes Pharmacy. May 20, 2024. Accessed June 14, 2024.

FDA announces position on use of compounded GS-441524 to treat FIP. News release. May 10, 2024. Accessed June 14, 2024. 

https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/cvm-updates/fda-announces-position-use-compounded-gs-441524-treat-fip#:~:text=The%20FDA%20is%20aware%20of,not%2C%20in%20fact%2C%20legal

The compounded treatment became available by veterinary prescription of individual patients in all states on June 1, 2024

Compounded oral FIP treatment is now available 

Forecasters from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Weather Service at the Climate Prediction Center anticipate higher-than-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin this year. NOAA's forecast for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, running from June 1 to November 30, indicates an 85% likelihood of an above-normal season, a 10% likelihood of a near-normal season, and a 5% likelihood of a below-normal season.

The NOAA predicts a range of 17 to 25 total storms with winds of 39 mph or higher. Of those 17 storms, about 8 to 13 are forecasted to become hurricanes with winds of 74 mph or higher. The NOAA also stated there could be 4 to 7 major hurricanes with a category 3, 4, or 5 and wind speeds of 111 mph or higher. Forecasters are 70% confident with these weather predictions.

As this potentially record-breaking hurricane season begins and National Pet Preparedness Month is in full swing, pet wellness company VetriScience is encouraging pet owners to plan ahead to keep their pets safe and minimize stress during severe storms.

 The American Red Cross recommends pet owners have a plan in place of evacuation drills and safe places to go during natural disasters.

 For livestock, the American Red Cross advises farmers to create a map of escape passages and routes for animals to go if needed and be aware of all necessary supplies.

"Pets are part of the family, so it's critical to include them in your hurricane preparedness plans," said Elizabeth DeLomba, DVM, MBA, senior veterinary services consultant at VetriScience, a news release.

 "Having the right supplies and identifying safe shelters ahead of time can make a huge difference for your pets' well-being during a hurricane."

A pet emergency kit can be a great resource in natural disaster planning. VetriScience recommends having a sturdy pet carrier (if applicable for your pet), a 2-week supply of food, water, medications, copies of vaccination records, photos to help identify your pets, and familiar toys or bedding to reduce stress.

 VetriScience offers a supplement designed to alleviate anxiety and stress for pets. The American Red Cross also stated that having a first aid kit handy can be useful in everyday life and emergencies.

VetriScience also advises owners to ensure pets have proper microchips or identification tags in case they ever get lost during an emergency. The pet company reminded owners that some public shelters do not allow companion pets and it is important to know which local shelters will take in people with pets.

"With some simple preparations, you can dramatically increase your pets' safety during hurricanes," DeLomba added. "Don't wait until a storm is bearing down—make your pet preparedness plans today."

NOAA predicts above-normal 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. News release. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. May 23, 2024. Accessed June 14, 2024. 

https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-predicts-above-normal-2024-atlantic-hurricane-season

Protect your pets during potential record-breaking hurricane season: VetriScience shares tips for pet owners. News release. VetriScience. June 13, 2024. Accessed June 14, 2024. 

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/protect-your-pets-during-potential-record-breaking-hurricane-season-vetriscience-shares-tips-for-pet-owners-302172216.html

Pet Preparedness Month: Make your pets, livestock part of your emergency plans. American Red Cross. June 6, 2023. Accessed June 14, 2024. 

https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/news/pet-preparedness-month-include-your-pets-in-emergency-plans.html

The 2024 hurricane season is predicted to be more hazardous than normal

Preparing and protecting pets for hurricane season

To expedite location tracking and response time to foreign animal diseases, the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is updating its animal disease traceability regulations for certain cattle and bison. The strengthened rule, an amendment to the original, which was instituted in 2013, will mandate that certain cattle and bison being moved between states receive electronic identification (EID) tags. The final rule will require official ear tags to be visually and electronically readable. It also includes revisions to record requirements related to cattle.

The revised rule is an update to the 2013 rule, which requires sexually intact cattle and bison 18 months of age or older, dairy cattle, rodeo and exhibition cattle or bison, and cattle or bison of any age used for shows or exhibitions, to have an official form of animal identification, originally solely visual ID tags.

With the new technology-based modification, part of the goal is to reduce disease outbreaks by making animals more easily traceable, limiting the time it takes to track them and therefore better containing the outbreak.

 “Rapid traceability in a disease outbreak will not only limit how long farms are quarantined, keep more animals from getting sick, and help ranchers and farmers get back to selling their products more quickly – but will help keep our markets open,” said Michael Watson, PhD, APHIS administrator, in an organizational release.

Although the new EID tag requirement is geared toward farmers and ranchers, it will also significantly benefit the United States’ foreign markets. Improving the US' capacity to contain the impact of animal disease outbreaks to certain regions is crucial for preserving international markets. EID tags will give the US the ability to swiftly demonstrate disease-free status in non-affected parts of the country, allowing the US to request that foreign trading partners recognize disease-free regions, thereby avoiding trade bans on the entire nation.

 According to the USDA, animal traceability is essential for establishing these disease-free zones and facilitating a quick reestablishment of foreign and domestic markets following an animal disease event.

The updated rule, whose announcement was made on April 26, 2024, will become effective 180 days succeeding its publication in the Federal Register. With the aim of jumpstarting efforts to allow for the quickest response to foreign animal disease, the USDA will continue providing free tags to producers.

 More information on how to access these tags can be found on the 

APHIS Animal Disease Traceability website

APHIS bolsters animal disease traceability in the United States. News release. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. April 26, 2024. Accessed May 24, 2024. 

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/agency-announcements/aphis-bolsters-animal-disease-traceability-united-states

APHIS finalizes rule requiring electronic ID tags for certain cattle, bison. News release. American Veterinary Medical Association. May 22, 2024. Accessed May 24, 2024. 

https://www.avma.org/news/aphis-finalizes-rule-requiring-electronic-id-tags-certain-cattle-bison

USDA revised its animal disease traceability regulations to require electronic identification tags for interstate movement of certain cattle and bison to reduce outbreaks.

USDA APHIS revises animal disease traceability regulations

 readers! We hope everyone had a great week and are ready for the weekend. Did you know that we are less than 2 months away from our next Fetch conference, Fetch Kansas City! Join us in the city of fountains from August 23-25, 2024, to hear from our amazing faculty, network with your favorite exhibitors, and just take the time to have fun and learn something new in one of our lectures. This is one you do not want to miss, so 

Here is what was popular this week on dvm360.com:

The team at the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine veterinary hospital 

 of Squid, a 5-year-old husky terrier mix, after her home caught on fire and she was overcome with smoke inhalation.

Middle school students from New Haven, Connecticut participated in 

 Believe and Belong in Veterinary Medicine event, which is the first certification program in the nation focusing on training and educating veterinary professionals in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging topics.

 welcomes Jon Geller, DVM, DABVP emeritus, to discuss Peticaid, a supplement to Mediciad to provide people a yearly allowance to be used for pet care, food, and even adoption fees.

Melinda Larson, DVM, DACVIM, and Richard Stone, DVM, DACVIM, 

 during the 2024 American College of Veterinary internal Medicine Forum discussed the ‘black box thinking’ as a way to reduce patient safety events.

 it has gathered results from a 5-year study that received a positive outcome of its preventative cancer vaccination for canine patients which is aiming to stop oncologic diseases prior to it starting.

 during the ACVIM Forum, Nicola A. Lakeman, MSc, BSc, (Hons), RVN, CertVNECC, CertSAN, VTS (Nutrition), she explains what the microbiome does to help promote nutrition.