Home › News › Pet Industry News
in

Researchers Uncover Mechanism Behind Allergy-Shielding Effects of Cats

Researchers at the University of Zurich have uncovered one of the mysteries behind the protections cats provide against allergy and asthma.

The protective effect cats and other animals have on children against asthma and allergies has been established for some time, but the mechanisms behind that effect were not well understood until recently. Microbes present in cats and other animals had previously been identified as agents responsible for the protective effects, but Dr. Remo Frei and a team of researchers from the Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research at the University of Zurich went deeper. Frei and his team identified a single molecule, N-Glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc), that appears to be responsible for the protective effects observed in cats.

Neu5Gc, a form of the sialic acid molecule, appears to play an important role in regulating the immune system’s inflammatory responses — the same ones responsible for the swelling associated with insect bites, injuries, and allergies. While Neu5Gc is produced naturally by most mammals, some species are unable to produce the substance on their own, including humans and many breeds of dog. Because of this, humans are susceptible to more intense immune responses unless they receive Neu5Gc supplements from other sources, such as through exposure to cats.

Among their findings, Frei and his team discovered that Neu5Gc doesn’t reduce the presence of immunoglobin E — the antibodies understood to play a crucial role in triggering inflammatory responses — but rather that it helps regulatory T-cells — the cells responsible for keeping immune responses in check — inhibit the severity of the reaction.

“Our research results open up opportunities for transferring the protective effect of farms to all children. In this way, we can possibly lay an important foundation stone for effective allergy prevention.”

— Remo Frei, Biologist, Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research, University of Zurich

The results of the team’s study is available from the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.

Source: How cats and cows protect farm children from asthma

in

Attitudes Toward Therapy Animals Improving Among Hospital Staff

A recent survey conducted by the Royal College of Nursing suggests that attitudes toward therapy animals in hospitals is improving.

Among the 750 nurses sampled in the survey, 82% believed animals could help patients be more physically active. 60% believed animals improved physical recovery. Despite the favorable view of therapy animals, many of the respondents reported that their hospitals still held policies that barred animals.

The issue of anti-animal policies held by hospitals continues to be a contentious issue for hospital administrators and staff. Despite evidence that suggests pets and therapy animals can improve outcomes for patients, many hospitals are reluctant to open their doors to animals due to long-standing myths and misconceptions.

Several doctors and nurses have taken it upon themselves to advocate for animal-friendly policies. Among those working to open more hospitals to animals is Amanda Cheesley, a nurse working to establish guidelines to promote best practices and to dispel misconceptions regarding animals in hospitals.

“Hospitals have been very reluctant to allow dogs in, whether it’s about fear of infection or about other patients being frightened. Clearly those things have to be taken into account but it doesn’t seem unreasonable for an elderly lady recovering from a hip operation to be wheeled out to meet her dog, or for him to be brought to her, to say hello.”

— Amanda Cheesley, Professional Lead, Long-Term Conditions, Royal College of Nursing

Source: Should more hospitals allow dogs to visit?

in

Purina Survey Examines Attitudes Toward Pets in the Workplace

The popularity of pet-friendly workplace policies has been on the rise for some time now, but just how are those policies perceived today? A survey conducted by Purina in May provides some fresh data on the subject.

The survey, published as part of Purina’s Pets at Work Report, examined the attitudes of over 1,000 American employees regarding pets in the workplace. Among the results,

  • Employees with pet-friendly workplaces were twice as likely to report being “very satisfied” with their work environment
  • Employees with pet-friendly workplaces reported pet-friendly policies as being the second biggest work-related perk
  • One third of employees with non-pet-friendly workplaces wished they could bring their pet to work
  • 63% of employees with pet-friendly workplaces indicated that they would be more enthusiastic about a prospective employer if they had pet-friendly policies

Both the survey and the Pets at Work report are part of Purina’s two-decade-long effort to promote the value of pets in the workplace.

“Pets bring a wealth of benefits — both physical and emotional — to pet owners and their families, so it’s no surprise those same benefits also apply to the workplace and employees. Whether a pet helps provide a calming sense during a challenging situation or encourages employees to take a walk during their lunch break, here at Purina, we experience the benefits of pets at work every day and want others to as well.”

— Kurt Venator, Chief Veterinary Officer, Purina

The report, along with a digital toolkit for employers looking to adopt pet-friendly policies, is available at the Pets at Work website.

Source: Purina survey examined value of pets at work

in

Pet Partners Receives Petco Foundation Grant for Therapy Animal Program

Pet Partners, the nation’s leading therapy animal registration and training organization recently received a $50,000 grant from the Petco Foundation to support its therapy animal program. In addition to the therapy animal program, a portion of the grant will also be used to promote Pet Partners’ new “From Shelter Pet to Therapy Pet” campaign.

“The public awareness campaign set to launch later this year will promote the idea of future therapy animals sitting right under our noses in local shelters and encourage people to consider adopting an animal and sharing that special animal with the community. We are excited about the opportunity to increase support of the important work of therapy animals and truly thank the Petco Foundation for helping to make that possible.”

— Annie Peters, CEO, Pet Partners

The funds from the Petco Foundation were raised in conjunction with Natural Balance as part of their “Helping Heroes” campaign held last year. The campaign recognizes and celebrates the impact that service, therapy and working animals have on the lives of millions of people.

Source: Pet Partners Receives $50K Grant Investment from Petco Foundation for Therapy Animal Program

in

Mars Petcare Teams Up with United States Conference of Mayors for Pet-Friendlier Cities

Mars Petcare and the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) are joining forces in a new initiative intended to make American cities more friendly for pets and their owners.

The initiative, known as Better Cities for Pets, will bring Mars and the USCM together to identify challenges to creating pet-friendly cities and to work toward resolving them. As part of an effort to better understand the state of pet-friendliness in cities, Mars surveyed mayors about existing perceptions and trends about pets in their communities. Among the survey’s results,

  • 100% of mayors agreed that pets can have a positive impact on human mental and physical health.
  • 82% of mayors believed that pet friendly amenities can have an overall positive economic impact on their communities.
  • 66% of mayors don’t have or aren’t aware of pet-friendly policies for public spaces like restaurants and stores.
  • 29% of mayors reported that their cities do not have adequate access to pet friendly greenways or trails.
  • 35% of mayors ranked facility upgrades as the greatest need to help homeless pet shelters in their communities.
  • 74% of mayors believed that offering pet friendly amenities will help residential rental communities improve tenant stability.
  • 81% of mayors believed that the availability of pet friendly amenities can help increase the value of residential property.
  • 69% of mayors believed that implementing a responsible pet ownership educational campaign would help make their communities more pet-friendly.

Overall, larger cities tended to have greater degree of perceived pet-friendliness. Larger cities also reported more pet amenities and provided more financial assistance to pet owners than smaller cities. At the same time, larger cities also reported the greatest need for outdoor pet-friendly amenities.

“From scientific research to anecdotal evidence, it’s been proven time and time again that pets can improve our lives. We know that pets make us happier, keep us active and healthier and keep our neighborhoods safer. As mayors, these factors are critically important to us, and this survey shows that many of us still have needs for basic amenities for pets, such as parks and green space for people with pets to play and adequate shelters to care for homeless pets. Knowing the largest pain points across our cities will help us to better focus our attention on how to make progress in welcoming people with pets in our communities.”

— Megan Barry, Mayor, Nashville, Tennessee

The results of the survey have been published in a report by Mars that summarizes communities needs regarding shelters, parks, homes, and businesses. Additionally, Mars has created a guide for communities wishing to adopt pet-friendly policies. Both documents are available at bettercitiesforpets.com.

Source: United States Conference of Mayors, Mars Petcare Partner to Make Cities More Pet-Friendly

in

New HABRI-Funded Study Suggests Dogs Improve Social Skills for Children with Autism

Green Chimneys - dog in social skills training

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) recently announced the publication of a study that suggests that animal-assisted interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may be effective for improving social skills.

The research was conducted by Green Chimneys, a therapeutic school and treatment center for children facing social, emotional and behavioral challenges. Dr. Joanna Becker, the study’s principal investigator, along with co-PIs Dr. Erica Rogers and Dr. Bethany Burrows, analyzed 31 Green Chimneys students ages 8-14 diagnosed with ASD and compared social and emotional functioning before and after the intervention. Students either participated in an animal-assisted social skills group or in a traditional social skills training group without an animal present.

Not only do dogs appear to have a positive effect on children’s emotional states, but they can aldo be motivating factors that encourage social interaction and involvement.

— Joanna Becker, Psychologist, Green Chimneys

The study’s results suggest that the inclusion of dogs in social skills training is more effective than traditional programs. Participants who received the animal-assisted social skills intervention exhibited fewer social skills deficits overall, fewer restricted and repetitive behaviors, and more typical social communication following the intervention. The study also found that participants who received the animal-assisted social skills intervention exhibited a greater level of change in social skills, perspective taking, theory of mind, and decreased feelings of isolation and depression.

For more information and to read about the innovative research projects HABRI has funded, visit their website. To learn more about Green Chimneys, visit their website here.

Source: New Research Shows Dogs Improve Social Skills for Children with Autism

in

Pets in the Classroom Challenges Teachers to Include Animals in Courses

Pets in the Classroom is challenging teachers to build lesson plans around pets in their 3rd annual Lesson Plan Contest.

The contest, open to teachers of pre-kindergarten through 8th grade, asks teachers to submit a lesson plan built around the use of fish, reptiles, and small animals. Submissions will be categorized by animal type (reptile/amphibian, aquarium/fish, birds/small animals) and grade level (pre-kindergarten–2, 3–5, 6–8). One winner will be selected from each animal/grade level combination for a total of nine winners in total. Winners will receive a $100 gift card.

Submissions from all categories will be scored on the following criteria:

  • Progressive: Having the ability to communicate multiple topics or one topic across different depths of knowledge
  • Interactive: Having the students or parents actively seek out and record their knowledge
  • Thorough: Lesson plan is complete with stated objectives and evaluation of results
  • Challenging: The students are pushed to expand their knowledge and pets are an integral part of the classroom curriculum

Lesson plans submitted as videos, worksheets, photos, PowerPoint presentations, flyers, or written documents will be eligible for review. Additional information on the application process can be found here.

Submissions are being accepted through August 1.

Source: Pets in the Classroom Hosts 3rd Annual Lesson Plan Contest for Teachers

in

Four Trends to Watch in the Mexican Pet Food Market

During a presentation at the Seventh International Mexican Pet Food Forum earlier this month, Ivan Franco, owner of market research firm Triplethree International, revealed four emerging trends in the Mexican pet food market to keep an eye on.

While the Mexican petfood market shares much in common with that of the rest of North America, a number of differences between the United States and Mexico have yielded some interesting departures. Rising incomes and shifts in attitudes toward pets over ten years ago led to a surge in demand for pet foods throughout Mexico. Fast forward to the present, those changes are now resulting in a new string of trends. Franco’s presentation highlighted four of the biggest trends at play in the Mexican market now and in the near future:

  1. Greater interest in both superpremium and economy offerings
  2. Greater demand for larger, eCommerce-friendly packages
  3. Greater demand for more diverse offerings
  4. Greater expected growth

As with the the rest of North America economic shifts and the continued rise of eCommerce-based sales have played, and will likely continue to play, important roles in the Mexican market.

For additional insights from Franco’s presentation, check out the full article on Pet Industry.

Source: 4 trends in the Mexican pet food market

in

Budgies Can Identify Spoken Sounds Without Speech Exposure

Budgies already boast a fairly impressive list of abilities — including speech mimicry, the ability to understand grammar, and the ability to use context-specific speech — thanks to researchers at the State University of New York, Buffalo, they may have yet another ability to add to that list.

According to a study published in PLOS One earlier this year, the researchers suggest that budgies are able to distinguish between subtle differences in sound that typically only appear in human speech; for example, the difference between human “D” and “T” sounds. The catch? The birds that participated in the study had no prior exposure to humans, including human speech.

“Regardless of their experience with speech sounds — whether completely isolated from human speech for their whole lives or trained extensively to mimic speech — the birds in our study used speech cues in a manner very similar to humans.”

— Mary Flaherty, Cognitive Psychologist, The State University of New York, Buffalo

The study is part of a long-standing debate in the scientific community regarding the nature of speech perception. Past research has led scientists to believe that humans and other animals rely on speech-specific mechanisms for identifying and using spoken language. The findings of this most recent study suggest that budgies — and possibly other animals — innately possess a general auditory mechanism rather than one that is trained and developed through exposure to speech. While they don’t conclusively end the debate, the results add more credence to idea that speech perception does not depend on previous exposure to speech.

Source: Budgerigars can identify spoken sounds without prior exposure to human speech

in

eCommerce Helps Push Global Pet Product Sales Past $100 Billion

The global pet industry exceeded $100 billion in sales in 2016 thanks, in part, to eCommerce.

Debbie Phillips-Donaldson, editor-in-chief of Petfood Industry, recently took a closer look at the global pet industry sales figures for 2016, as well as some of the threats and opportunities the industry faces as it moves into the future. One of the biggest factors in the current market landscape? eCommerce.

With nearly a tenth of all pet food and product sales occurring through the Internet — and over 15% in Asian markets — eCommerce continues to gain traction, especially among younger pet owners. The rise of eCommerce as a major market force has been on the horizon for some time, but with continued growth from giants like Amazon and PetSmart’s recent acquisition of Chewy, retailers are facing more pressure than ever to adapt.

Overall, the pet market shows no sign of slowing, with global sales estimated to reach $117 billion in less than five years. That continued growth may help retailers and manufacturers adapt to changes in the market more easily but, as eCommerce sales heat up, that buffer may quickly run out.

For a closer look at the changes eCommerce is bringing to the market, read Phillips-Donaldson’s full article on Petfood Industry.

Source: Pet food, pet care to keep growing, driven by ecommerce

in

Venue and Dates for SuperZoo 2018 Announced

SuperZoo 2018 will be held between June 26 and 28 next year at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas.

The announcement, recently made by show producers, the World Pet Association (WPA), marks a shift from the show’s usual July slot. The schedule shift will allow the show to include greater space for exhibits while also allowing partner hotels to accommodate 30% more attendees and exhibitors.

“SuperZoo has come a long way since it was a small regional show and we are thrilled to have more than 18,000 pet industry professionals join us each year in Las Vegas. We continue to grow year on year and are proud of the fact that we enjoy the most buyer participation of any trade show for the pet retail industry in North America. This continued growth has made it difficult to have enough sleeping rooms at the Mandalay properties and exhibit space for new exhibitors and growth of our existing exhibitors’ booths. This move will allow us to create a better experience for both our exhibitors and attendees. We’re delighted to continue our excellent relationship with Mandalay Bay, and are looking forward to putting together a stellar event in 2018.”

— Doug Poindexter, President, World Pet Association

Source: WPA Announces SuperZoo 2018’s Venue and Time

in

European Pet Food Trends for 2017

In the wake of Petfood Forum Europe 2017, a number of trends among European pet food consumers has emerged. While many aspects mirror those of North American markets, the European market differs in a few interesting ways.

The conference, held in Cologne, Germany earlier this month, hosted industry leaders and nutrition experts from across Europe and beyond for a series of presentations on pet nutrition. Among the presentations was a summary of perceptions of valued pet food features of dog and cat owners in Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom. The presentation, given by Sarah-Jane Godfrey, technical marketing manager for DSM, revealed that functional nutrition and the ratio and sources of protein were among the most important features for consumers in those markets. In a major departure from the United States, those markets generally reported less concern about grain and gluten content in their pets’ foods. Sustainability and quality of ingredients also rated as high concerns across those markets.

For other trends in European markets — including major differences between Eastern and Western Europe — read the full story on Petfood Industry.

Source: Pet owners in Europe focused on pet nutrition and health

in

Sustainability Central Topic at Impact Unleashed

65 of the pet industry’s top leaders and influencers gathered at the Pet Sustainability Coalition‘s first annual Impact Unleashed event last month to take on the topic of sustainability in the industry.

The event, billed as an annual meeting of the brightest figures in the industry to address its biggest opportunities and challenges, provided a chance for individuals — who might normally be competitors — to work collaboratively on the growing issue of sustainability in the pet industry. Specific topics engaged at the event included protein sourcing and human rights violations as a result of forced fishing and other labor, both of which have emerged as especially sensitive issues over the past year.

In the wake of positive responses from attendees, the Pet Sustainability Coalition expects attendance at next year’s Impact Unleashed event to double.

Videos from this year’s Impact Unleashed, along with information on attending next year’s event, are available here.

Source: Impact Unleashed Discusses Pet Industry Sustainability

in

Eleven Benefits of Pet Ownership and the Science Behind Them

Pets are great; we know that. They also provide a dazzling assortment of physical and mental health benefits to their human counterparts; we know that too. In fact, there are so many perks to pet ownership that it can be hard to keep track of them all. If you happen to fall into that camp, don’t worry, Mother Nature Network has you — and your pet — covered.

In a recent article, MNN took a tour of eleven studies that indicate that pets are good for us and how. So, what can a pet do for you? SPOILER ALERT: a lot.

  1. Pets alleviate allergies and boost immune function
  2. Pets up your fitness quotient
  3. Pets dial down stress
  4. Pets boost heart health
  5. Make you a social — and date — magnet
  6. Provides a social salve for Alzheimer’s patients
  7. Enhances social skills in kids with autism
  8. Dampens depression and boosts mood
  9. Defeats PTSD
  10. Fights cancer
  11. Puts the kibosh on pain

Check out the full article on MNN to learn more about the studies behind each of the benefits pets have to offer.

Source: 11 studies that prove pets are good for your health

in

American Humane Teams Up with Chicken Soup for the Soul to Donate Over 250 Tons of Pet Food

American Humane and Chicken Soup for the Soul recently teamed up to deliver over 5,000 pounds of food to the Sebastian County Humane Society in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

The donation was made as part of the joint “Fill a Bowl… Feed a Soul” campaign which has already served up over 500,000 pounds of pet food to animals in need. Through the campaign, American Humane and Chicken Soup for the Soul hope to serve over 1,000,000 meals to animals in need.

Fill a Bowl… Feed a Soul is the latest in a series of collaborations between American Humane and Chicken Soup for the Soul, including several pet-oriented books in the best-selling Chicken Soup for the Soul series.

“This campaign helps animals when they need help most. On behalf of all the beloved pets across the country, a big thank-you to our friends at Chicken Soup for the Soul!”

— Robin Ganzert, President and CEO, American Humane

Source: American Humane and Chicken Soup for the Soul Work Together to Deliver 5,382 Pounds of Food and Love to the Sebastian County Humane Society

in

Pet Food Supplier Looks to Flies for Sustainability

Pet food ingredient manufacturer Darling Ingredients is teaming up with bioengineering firm Intrexon to mass produce sustainable nutrients derived from black soldier fly larvae.

The venture, known as EnviroFlight, will involve the construction of a new production facility designed to convert black fly larvae into protein and other nutrients for pet food and other applications. The facility, for which construction began last month, is expected to be operational by early 2018.

The use of insect-derived nutrients as a food ingredient has become a recurring subject for pet food manufacturers seeking to improve sustainability. Advances in research have made less conventional nutrient sources — such as insects and aquatic plants — increasingly viable ways to meet the demands of both animals and humans.

“Leveraging more than eight years of applied research and development, the new facility will employ our industrial BSF platform and opens the door to a sustainable source of high quality nutrients for the aquaculture, livestock and specialty pet feed industries.”

— Glen Courtright, President and Founder, EnviroFlight

Despite advances in the science, many of these alternative nutrient sources still face hurdles before they are ready for market. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), a group that helps to inform and shape policy, recently indicated that definitions for insect-based ingredients would need to be established before they should be deemed acceptable. So far, black soldier fly larvae are the only insect to have been defined in this way.

Source: Facility to make insect-based novel pet food ingredient

in

New Study Suggests Dogs Provide Social Support for Stressed Kids

A study from researchers at the University of Florida suggests that pet dogs may help children cope with stress by providing them with social support.

The study, published in the journal Social Development, examined the effects of family pets on children during stressful tasks. Participating children were asked to complete a public speaking task and a mental math test, both of which have been demonstrated to simulate stressful events children might experience in real life. All of the participants had pet dogs, though only some of them had their dogs present during the tasks. Children whose dogs were present during the stressful tasks exhibited lower levels of cortisol, a hormone linked to stress.

“Our research shows that having a pet dog present when a child is undergoing a stressful experience lowers how much children feel stressed out. Children who had their pet dog with them reported feeling less stressed compared to having a parent for social support or having no social support.”

— Darlene Kertes, Assistant Professor, Psychology, University of Florida

The results of the study are consistent with those found in similar studies of both children and adults.

Source: Pet dogs help kids feel less stressed

in

Study Leads to New Recommendations for Emotional Support Animals

A new study of mental health professionals may pave the way for clearer guidelines for certifying emotional support animals (ESAs).

The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Missouri, explored the ways mental health professionals make determinations about the certification of ESAs. By understanding how and through what processes mental health professionals make their assessments, researchers hope to provide clearer recommendations in the future.

Unlike service animals, a term which has been recognized and defined under federal law, ESAs exist in a fuzzy legal space. Service animals must undergo rigorous training and certification processes to ensure their suitability for the tasks they perform as well as the environments in which they perform them. ESAs, however, require no particular training to obtain the “emotional support animal” title. Many of the protections granted to service animals and those who use them, including the right to enter many establishments, are not extended to ESAs under federal law. State and local laws vary from location to location, resulting in confusion among those with ESAs and those asked to accommodate them.

“ESAs are legally different from service animals, such as guide dogs. An ESA usually provides companionship, relieves loneliness and sometimes helps with anxiety or depression. Although emotional support animals can be pets, they’re not considered pets under the law and sometimes special accommodations must be afforded to individuals who have ESAs. Because of this requirement, owners seek out ways to get their pets certified without thinking about the ramifications of their actions.”

— Cassie Boness, Graduate Student, Clinical Psychology, Missouri University

The confusion among the general public about ESAs and service animals has led to numerous instances where ESAs with inadequate training have been placed in situations inappropriate for them and those around them. By providing greater clarity about ESAs and the guidelines for their use, the authors of the study hope to facilitate the development of better legislation in the future.

Source: Study reveals recommendations for certifying emotional support animals

in

Labrador Retriever Most Popular Breed for Over a Quarter Century

According to the American Kennel Club, the Labrador Retriever has earned the title of most popular dog breed for the 26th year in a row.

Top Ten Most Popular Dogs in the United States (2016)

  1. Labrador Retriever
  2. German Shepherd
  3. Golden Retriever
  4. Bulldog
  5. Beagle
  6. French Bulldog
  7. Poodle
  8. Rottweiler
  9. Yorkshire Terrier
  10. Boxer

While the top spot has remained relatively stable over the last 26 years, the charts have been subject to some pretty dramatic upheavals. Terriers, in particular, seemed to be climbing the charts in 2016 with Russell Terriers (up 14 slots to #90), Parson Russell Terriers (up two slots to #109), and Dandie Dinmont Terriers (up five slots to #167) making big moves. Rottweilers, too, seem to be growing in popularity, taking the #8 spot last year. Rottweilers peaked at #2 in 1997, but have been steadily bouncing back over the past ten years.

So what makes Labrador Retrievers so popular? Some cite its wide range and ability to fit in virtually anywhere.

“The Labrador retriever has a strong hold on the top spot, and doesn’t show signs of giving it up anytime soon. The Lab is such a versatile dog that it’s no wonder it makes a great companion for a variety of lifestyles. Keep your eye on the Rottweiler, though. It’s been quietly winning hearts over the past decade.”

— Gina DiNardo, Vice President, American Kennel Club

Source: Labrador Retriever Most Popular Breed 26th Year in a Row

in

FDA Issues Alert for Possible Accidental Overdose of Noise Aversion Drug

The FDA has issued an alert for pet owners and veterinarians about the risk of possible accidental overdose of noise aversion drug Sileo.

According to the statement, accidental overdose can occur if the drug, which uses a dial-controlled dosing mechanism, is administered without locking the dosing ring stop.

To date, the FDA has received 28 reports involving Sileo overdoses in dogs due to the ring-stop mechanism not properly locking at the intended dose. In some cases, the entire contents of the dosing syringe were administered to the dog. In 15 out of the 28 reports, dogs experienced clinical signs of overdose, including lethargy, sedation, sleepiness, slow heart rate, loss of consciousness, shallow or slow breathing, trouble breathing, impaired balance or incoordination, low blood pressure, and muscle tremors. No deaths have been reported. At this time, the FDA has not determined if these overdoses were due to improper use of the ring-stop.

— Statement from the Federal Food and Drug Administration

Sileo's administration package features a dosage control ring stop mechanism. Accidental overdose can occur if the drug is administered while the ring stop is unlocked. (Photo courtesy Zoetis)

Sileo’s administration package features a dosage control ring stop mechanism. Accidental overdose can occur if the drug is administered while the ring stop is unlocked. (Photo courtesy Zoetis)

Sileo was initially released by Zoetis in 2016 as a treatment for noise aversion in dogs. Noise aversion, or noise phobia, is a form of anxiety that accompanies a fear response to certain sounds. With over one third of dogs reported to be affected, it is a common, widespread problem for both dogs and their owners. Left untreated, noise aversion can result in stress, increased frequency and severity of episodes, and the development of undesirable behaviors, including escape.

Treatment for noise aversion has historically involved forms of behavior modification therapy, including counter-conditioning and desensitization therapy. The development of Sileo by Zoetis represents a major breakthrough in the treatment for noise aversion in dogs. To date, Sileo remains the only drug approved by the FDA for the treatment of canine noise aversion.

Both the FDA and Zoetis encourage pet owners and veterinarians to be aware of the possibility of accidental overdose and to review administration instructions thoroughly before use.

Source: FDA Drug Safety Communication: FDA warns about risk of accidental overdosing of dogs with the drug Sileo (dexmedetomidine oromucosal gel)