Weekly companion animal news: December 27, 2021

Worms that infect companion animals are more likely to jump to humans than other parasites, research shows

Parasitic worms that infect companion animals such as dogs and cats are more likely to jump to humans than other worm species, according to new research from the University of Georgia. “The close relationships that we have with pets is the predominant reason why people might become infected with new species of parasitic worms,” said Ania Majewska, lead author of the study and a doctoral graduate from the university’s Odum School of Ecology. “Everyday behaviors like playing with and feeding our pets increase opportunities for those parasites to infect people.” The study identified three species of worms that don’t currently infect people but have a more than 70% chance of crossing into humans in the future. In addition to worms that infect companion animals or fish, the researchers found that geographically widespread parasites were more likely to jump to people.

Dechra will distribute Bioiberica’s Atopivet dermatology products in the United States

Dechra announced a joint collaboration with Bioiberica for the license and distribution of Bioiberica’s Atopivet range of dermatology products for cats and dogs in the United States. This partnership complements Dechra’s existing dermatology range. The agreement includes the Atopivet Collar, Atopivet Spot-On and Atopivet Mousse. The new product range “strengthens Dechra’s popular dermatology product line by offering several unique alternatives to multi-modal dermatology therapy,” said Mike Eldred, president of Dechra North America. “Dermatological problems in canines are one of the most common reasons for veterinary clinic visits,” said Alfonso Velasco, companion animal director at Bioiberica. “We’re delighted to be partnering with Dechra to bring our Atopivet range to the United States.”

Cronus Pharma announces Todd Brodersen as senior director of sales and marketing

Animal health pharmaceutical company Cronus Pharma announced Todd Brodersen has joined the company as senior director of sales and marketing. Brodersen has worked for Cronus for 13 years and has 30 years of animal health industry experience, according to the announcement. Prior to his time at Cronus, he served as president and founder of Same Page Consulting, spearheading consulting, marketing and business development projects with many leading animal health manufacturers and distributors.

Veterinary Virtual Care Association announces new management

The Veterinary Virtual Care Association announced it will bring on Management Solutions Plus to provide association management services. MSP will carry out day-to-day management of the association. Thérèse Clemens will serve as executive director and Jackie King will serve as strategic advisor. Current executive director Ali McIntyre will transition to a role on the VVCA board. The VVCA aims to make virtual care part of the standard of care in veterinary medicine by advocating best practices, providing educational resources and creating a community of professionals.

APPA CEO to retire this week

Steve King, CEO of the American Pet Products Association, will retire from his role effective December 31. The organization’s board of directors has begun a nationwide search for a replacement, according to the announcement. APPA’s executive vice president and chief operating officer, Andrew Darmohraj, is serving as interim CEO while the board conducts its search. King joined APPA in 2019.

FDA conditionally approves first oral tablet to treat chemotherapy-induced diarrhea in dogs

The FDA has conditionally approved Canalevia-CA1 (crofelemer delayed-release tablets) for the treatment of chemotherapy-induced diarrhea in dogs. This is the first treatment to be approved for this condition, according to the agency. “Diarrhea is a common side effect of chemotherapy in dogs, which can be so severe that cancer treatment must be halted,” said Dr. Steven M. Solomon, director of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine. “Chemotherapy drugs often have potential side effects, but, unlike in human medicine where patients may be willing to tolerate some discomfort in exchange for a potential cure, the primary purpose of cancer treatment in dogs and other pets is to extend survival without sacrificing quality of life and comfort.” Canalevia-CA1 is available by prescription. It’s a tablet delivered by mouth and can be prescribed for home treatment, according to the FDA.