Weekly Companion Animal News: March 9, 2026

Merck receives FDA approval for NUMELVI for dogs

Merck reports NUMELVI is the only second-generation Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor indicated for the control of pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis in dogs six months of age and older. Administered once daily, the product is expected to be available at veterinary clinics and hospitals in spring 2026. Skin conditions are common in dogs and can account for up to 20% of cases seen in general veterinary practice.

Innocan receives third fee waiver for canine OA drug candidate

The FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine granted Innocan Pharma a sponsor fee waiver for the third consecutive year under the agency’s “significant barrier to innovation” provision. The waiver relates to Innocan’s Liposomal Technology–CBD (LPT-CBD) drug product candidate, being developed as a subcutaneous injection for the management of chronic pain in dogs. In a blinded, crossover study conducted on osteoarthritic dogs, LPT-CBD demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in pain and meaningful improvements in overall wellbeing compared with placebo (empty liposomes), according to the company.

Rising cost of animal care affecting clinic visits: BoA

A report from Bank of America found vet clinic visits fell by 2% to 3% in 2025. Vet industry revenue growth of 2% that year was “entirely supported by +5 to +6% YoY price increases passed on to pet owners.” The consolidation of veterinary practices under corporate ownership through the 2010s is the root cause of accelerating prices, according to BoA. “While consolidation initially supported revenue and margin expansion for veterinarians, escalating sticker prices have increasingly weighed on clinic traffic, essentially pricing out pet owners from care due to affordability concerns.”

Zomedica and Moichor sign TRUVIEW distribution agreement

Zomedica will supply its TRUVIEW digital microscopy systems and associated supplies for Moichor’s sale to its point-of-care veterinary customers. The systems will be co-branded and integrated with Moichor’s proprietary AI engine and board-certified pathology services. In addition to the Moichor agreement, Zomedica will continue its own direct placements of TRUVIEW systems. The TRUVIEW enables automated slide preparation and digital imaging that can be reviewed locally or shared remotely.

Canine kidney disease research advances at U of Georgia

Dr. Jon P. Mochel has been appointed the Diane L. Wynocker Professor for Advancing Canine Kidney Disease Research in the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Mochel, director of the Precision One Health Initiative, leads a team of scientists developing novel research models using lab-grown mini organs, called organoids. The lab grew a canine kidney organoid about four years ago and recently established what they believe to be the first feline kidney organoid model in the world. Although organoids are simplified versions of the actual organs and tissues they’re derived from, they give researchers a cellular-level view of the development and progression of diseases. They also make it possible to test the efficacy of drug candidates.

U.S. bill would facilitate disaster protection plans for pets

Introduced into the U.S. Congress in February, the PETSAFE Act of 2026 — which stands for Providing Essential Temporary Shelter Assistance For Emergencies — would expand the use of emergency management funds so local governments can plan for evacuations that move animals to safety, as well as provide veterinary care and rescue equipment during disasters. State, local and tribal governments could use FEMA funds toward pet supplies, crates, veterinary equipment, emergency generators and training and other necessities.

Clues to canine cancer treatment lie in the gut

Canine cancer patients receiving a new form of immunotherapy lived longer or shorter depending on the composition of their microbiome, according to Oregon State University scientists. “Our study is a first step toward using the gut microbiome as a tool to develop prognoses and to manipulate cancer,” said OSU’s Natalia Shulzhenko.

British veterinarians recommend context-based decisionmaking about neutering

In an updated policy position, the British Veterinary Association and the British Small Animal Veterinary Association encourage vets to shift away from early neutering for both male and female dogs and to perform a case-by-case assessment of whether neutering would benefit male dogs. The advice for cats remains unchanged and supports male and female neutering be delayed until around four months of age, before they reach sexual maturity.