Idexx Releases Vello Client Communication Software
Veterinary hospitals using ezyVet, Neo or Cornerstone practice management software may integrate Idexx Laboratories’ new Vello pet owner engagement software. Vello’s features include automated appointment reminders and confirmations, two-way texting, reminders about upcoming or past-due services, and online appointment requests. The subscription service launches in March in the United States and in the second quarter in Canada.
Midmark Unveils Multiparameter Monitors
Midmark Corp. introduced a 12-inch Multiparameter Monitor and an 8-inch portable model. The new products feature a built-in pre-procedure checklist, enhanced blood pressure capabilities, an alarm center and customizable user displays.
Study Finds Growing Interest in Veterinary AI
A new study from practice management software developer Digitail found that 39% of respondents reported using artificial intelligence in their veterinary setting. In addition, 39% of veterinary professionals are interested in incorporating AI tools into their practice soon, while nearly 16% expressed a clear opposition to AI. The whitepaper “Artificial Intelligence in Veterinary Medicine: The Next Paradigm Shift” is available at bit.ly/48ohfRV.
Man Sentenced for Selling Phony Cancer Drugs
The U.S. Justice Department reported that Collegeville, Pennsylvania, resident Jonathan Nyce was sentenced to 97 months in prison for defrauding pet owners out of nearly $1 million by falsely claiming his drugs could cure canine cancer. The concoctions went by the names Tumexal and Naturasone. “In reality, these drugs were nothing more than a collection of bulk ingredients from various sources, which the defendant blended together himself,” the government stated.
Young Companies Invited Onstage in K.C.
The K.C. Animal Health Corridor is accepting applications from emerging animal health companies interested in presenting their products and business plans at the 2024 Animal Health Summit. The annual event will take place on Aug. 26 and 27 in Kansas City, Missouri. Learn more at bit.ly/3SGQ2UF.
Pet HealthZone Website Adds Cat Breeds
Nationwide pet insurance added 11 pure and mixed feline breeds and other features to its Pet HealthZone website. The resource, available at thepethealthzone.com, includes more than 100 dog breeds. “The Pet HealthZone is designed to help pet parents uncover the increased health risks their pet may face, along with lots of fun information about how to love and care for them right,” said Dr. Jules Benson, Nationwide’s chief veterinary officer and vice president of pet health.
Training Company Pyxis Sponsors VHMA
Pyxis, a training, onboarding and education platform, became a Gold Supporting Sponsor of the Veterinary Hospital Managers Association. New Orleans-based Pyxis offers Pyxis Pro, a learning management system built to support the orientation of new hires and continued training at veterinary practices.
BluePearl Debuts Public Charity
The BluePearl network of emergency and specialty veterinary hospitals launched a charitable arm, BluePearl Cares. “As a public charity, BluePearl Cares will increase access to care through three pillars: care in communities, care in hospitals and care in shelters through a combination of grant programs and direct delivery of veterinary services and support,” the company reported. Donations may be made at bit.ly/4bFkVBA.
Hill’s Faces Class-Action Lawsuit
A class-action lawsuit filed by KetoNatural Pet Foods accuses Hill’s Pet Nutrition and other defendants of “a coordinated scheme to persuade American pet owners that the grain-free dog food products sold by many Hill’s competitors all increase the risk and severity of a deadly canine heart disease called dilated cardiomyopathy.” The lawsuit seeks $2.6 billion in damages. According to Hill’s, “We believe the allegations are without merit, and we will defend our position vigorously.”