Weekly Companion Animal News: August 10, 2026

Cornell U to study impact of private equity ownership on veterinary practices

Researchers at Cornell University’s industrial relations school received a seed grant to examine the impact of private equity leveraged buyouts on workers’ mental health, job quality and care quality in veterinary clinics. The research seeks to clarify how changes in ownership redistribute risks, resources and decision-making power within the workplace, with consequences for both workers and the quality of care, said Duanyi Yang at Cornell ILR’s Center for Applied Research on Work.

PetVivo, VetStem terminate license and supply agreement

PetVivo Holdings entered into a Termination and Settlement Agreement with VetStem, effective July 24, 2026, relating to the VetStem’s PrecisePRP freeze-dried platelet-rich plasma product for canine and equine applications. “This agreement …allows both companies to move forward independently,” said PetVivo CEO John Lai. “Most important, it enables PetVivo to devote its full attention and resources to advancing our proprietary technologies, including SPRYNG with OsteoCushion Technology.”

IDEXX achieves Q2 2026 revenue growth of 10%

The company reported Q2 2026 revenue of $1.217 billion, driven by Companion Animal Group growth of 9%. IDEXX VetLab consumables generated 15% revenue growth; reference lab diagnostic and consulting services generated 11% growth; and rapid assay products revenues increased 1%. Companion Animal Diagnostics capital instrument revenues fell 19%. Veterinary software, services and diagnostic imaging systems revenues grew 12%.

Texas shelters overcrowded due to NWW transport restrictions

Many states now require animals from Texas to have an entry permit and documentation showing they’ve been inspected by a veterinarian for New World screwworm five to seven days before travel. But hundreds of Texas shelters lack access to a veterinarian, says Ellen Jefferson, a veterinarian and president/CEO of the animal rescue organization Austin Pets Alive. The organization has been trying to become the “vet on record” for as many small shelters as possible so they can access the preventative treatments.

PetIQ completes acquisition of MYOS

PetIQ Inc. announced it closed the acquisition of MYOS Corp. and its Fortetropin-based product portfolio of muscle health products for animal health, spanning both OTC supplements and veterinary-exclusive formulations. Idaho-based PetIQ is a portfolio company of Bansk Group and developer of OTC flea & tick products, dental treats and nutritional products.

Xylazine bill takes a step forward

The Combating Illicit Xylazine Act passed unanimously out of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. The Act would schedule xylazine as a Schedule III illicit substance under the Controlled Substances Act while ensuring its continuing access by veterinarians, farmers and ranchers. The Act would enable the DEA to track xylazine manufacturing to ensure it is not diverted to the illicit market.

NC State to launch pain management consultation service in August

NC State’s Comparative Pain Research and Education Center (CRPEC) will launch a clinical pain consultation service for pet owners in August and will expand the role of modern veterinary pain management in its veterinary student curriculum. Collectively, CVM researchers have more than $12 million in active grants related to pain research from a variety of sources, including the NIH, animal health foundations and veterinary industry partners.

U Maryland Eastern Shore awaits accreditation decision following site visit

University of Maryland Eastern Shore in Princess Anne reports that the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education conducted a comprehensive site visit in June. As the university awaits the AVMA COE’s decision on accreditation, the School of Veterinary Medicine continues to advance faculty recruitment and hiring, academic programming, clinical partnerships, student services, facilities, and operational resources. U Maryland plans to welcome its inaugural class to Maryland’s first in-state school of veterinary medicine in the summer of 2027.