Weekly Companion Animal News: July 14, 2025

Gallant announces closing of $18MM Series B financing for stem cell research

Animal health biotechnology firm Gallant announced the successful closing of its $18 million Series B financing. The round was led by Digitalis Ventures, with continued support from BOLD Capital and Hill Creek Partners, and new participation from NovaQuest Capital Management. Gallant’s first ready-to-use stem cell therapy is on track for FDA conditional approval in early 2026 and could become the first FDA-labeled, allogeneic stem cell therapy in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Lori Teller recognized by AVMA for leadership, mentorship and education

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) honored former AVMA President Dr. Lori Teller with the 2025 AVMA Award, which recognizes members who have contributed to the advancement of veterinary medicine in its organizational aspects; exerted leadership in building stronger local, state or regional associations; or contributed to the improvement of the national organization. Dr. Teller is a recognized expert in veterinary telehealth, leading Texas A&M’s VirtualVet program.

Royal Canin named official nutrition partner of The Seeing Eye

Royal Canin U.S. has been named the official nutrition partner of The Seeing Eye, a guide dog organization. Seeing Eye raises three primary breeds for service – German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers – and supports genetics and behavioral research that improves the health and well-being of all dogs, educates handlers in the ethical handling and care of guide dogs, and advocates for the rights of service animal handlers.

Elanco receives USDA approval for canine influenza vaccine

Elanco Animal Health announced USDA approval of TruCan Ultra CIV H3N2/H3N8, a canine influenza vaccine designed to provide broad respiratory disease protection. Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease Complex (CIRDC) is a collection of respiratory diseases of various causative agents, including Canine Influenza Virus (CIV). Brachycephalic dogs – dog breeds with short heads, flat faces and snub noses – are at high risk of developing CIRDC.

Economic uncertainty, complexity in buying decisions challenge practices, marketers

Veterinary professionals report more challenges combating economic uncertainty, overcoming pet owner financial constraints and finding staff, according to VetMedux’s annual industry survey for veterinary marketers. Despite these challenges, their reported purchase volume and pace are mostly stable. The survey of 536 veterinary professionals shows that buying has become more complex, with larger teams involved and influencers researching solutions long before manufacturers know they’re in the game.

Pet industry growth will be driven by strategic players

Traditional veterinary service providers are facing an affordability crisis, says the Freedonia Group in “Veterinary Services in the US Report, 5th Edition: Competing for the Pet Care Customer.” The sector is experiencing a fast-digitalizing landscape and uncharacteristically modest dollar growth. Meanwhile, pet owners grapple with persistent inflation and elevated costs for pet products and services. Nonetheless, opportunities remain for strategic players who recognize that pet owner spending has broadened across products, services and high-tech product/service hybrids.

KARL STORZ unifies Canada, US and veterinary organizations

Endoscopic and surgical imaging company KARL STORZ announced the creation of a North America region, which will unify its US, Canada, and Veterinary businesses under the leadership of Sonal Matai, who led KARL STORZ United States since early 2024. KARL STORZ North America encompasses six locations in the U.S. and a Canadian and Veterinary hub in Mississauga, Ontario.

Petspan launches telemedicine protocol to deliver rapamycin therapy to cats

Petspan, the veterinary telemedicine division of longevity health company Healthspan, announced the launch of a remote-care protocol delivering rapamycin therapy to cats diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). The protocol combines virtual cardiology consultations with board-certified specialists, continuous asynchronous monitoring through secure e-visits, and pharmacy fulfillment of customized rapamycin formulations dosed according to each patient’s weight and disease stage. HCM affects up to 15% of the feline population.