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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 11th April 2018
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Mars Petcare acquires OptiGen, LLC
The acquisition includes an extensive biobank of more than 150,000 samples collected over two decades.

Acquisition includes licenses to a portfolio of genetic disease tests

Mars Petcare has taken possession of OptiGen LLC, A DNA diagnostics company specialising in canine inherited eye disorders.

The acquisition includes exclusive licenses to a portfolio of genetic disease tests patented in the U.S, Australia and a number of European countries. It also includes an extensive biobank of more than 150,000 samples collected over two decades, representing various canine eye diseases.

Mars Petcare said they will use the samples to find new genetic health markers for dogs.  
"Through our pioneering Wisdom Health business, Mars Petcare is leading the discovery of new genetic markers for pet health. As our scientists seek to improve the understanding of the genetic basis of pet health and disease, this acquisition will contribute to the development of personalized veterinary care," said Leonid Sudakov, president of Connected Solutions at Mars Petcare.

"We see our continued efforts to contribute to the ground-breaking companion animal genetics science as a great way to deliver on our purpose: 'A Better World for Pets'."

Cynthia Cole, general manager of Wisdom Health at Mars Petcare added: "We're at a pivotal time in companion animal genetic research, and with this acquisition, we will add to the growing body of knowledge to help veterinarians' ability to predict and treat inherited eye disorders for dogs."

"This acquisition is a welcome and natural evolution of OptiGen's 20-year history of working with conscientious dog owners, breeders, clubs and canine health registries around the world," said Sue Pearce-Kelling, OptiGen's President.

"OptiGen's and Wisdom Health's shared commitment to providing the highest quality of DNA testing for dogs while also supporting research aimed at identifying new genetic markers for inherited diseases, as well as our mutual respect for intellectual property where it exists in the field, makes this an excellent fit."

Mars Petcare acquired OptiGen on 10 April 218 and the companies will manage the transition over the course of 2018. 

Image (C) Mars Petcare

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.