Press

Press Archives »

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 30, 2008
Contact: Jewelle Yamada – (212) 207-0574

Summit VetPharm Announces New Distributor Partnership with Webster Veterinary

Webster Veterinary, a division of Patterson Companies, Inc., with headquarters in Sterling Massachusetts, and one of the largest veterinary distributors in the United States has entered into an agreement with Summit VetPharm to distribute their portfolio of ectoparasiticide products to practicing veterinarians.

“I am elated that we will be working with one of the leading veterinary distributors,” commented Julia Stephanus, President and CEO of Summit VetPharm. “Our sales of Vectra 3D™ and Vectra™ for Cats and Kittens since launch have been expanding significantly. This new partnership with Webster Veterinary will help us meet the growing demand for our products.”

Webster Veterinary will be joining Great Western Animal Health, Henry Schein Animal Health, Merritt Veterinary Supplies, Inc., Midwest Veterinary Supply, Inc., NLS Animal Health (a division of Henry Schein, Inc.), Northeast Veterinary Supply Company (NEVSCO), PCI Animal Health, Sanum Puerto Rico and Victor Medical Company as an official veterinary distributor for Summit VetPharm’s products. In addition to a powerful distribution network, Summit VetPharm is continuing to work with its co-promotion partner, Abbott Animal Health, to represent the Vectra portfolio of products.

Summit VetPharm offers some of the newest veterinarian-dispensed ectoparasiticidal topicals for companion animals. Vectra 3D™, a broad-spectrum topical with dinotefuran, a third-generation neonicotinoid, effectively protects dogs against three vectors – fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes, even in regions experiencing resistance issues. Vectra™ for Cats & Kittens and Vectra™ for Cats feature a combination of dinotefuran and pyriproxyfen that delivers rapid, effective and more complete flea control for cats and kittens.

“The timing of this new partnership is perfect stated Dr. Albert Ahn. Robust veterinary demand for Vectra 3D™ and Vectra™ for Cats and Kittens has been driven by a combination of factors. One of the most important has been the advent of a new flea and tick season which has many veterinarians evaluating new solutions for their patients' ectoparasitical needs. Our new veterinary distributor partner will help us to continue to introduce the science and innovation behind our products to the profession.”

Webster Veterinary

A division of Patterson Companies, Inc., is the leading distributor of veterinary supplies to companion-pet veterinary clinics in the eastern United States and the second largest nationally. One of the most respected names in the veterinary supply industry, Webster is a value-added, full-service distributor of consumable supplies, equipment, diagnostic products, vaccines and pharmaceuticals. www.jawebster.com

Summit VetPharm

Founded by veterinarians and experienced industry professionals, Summit VetPharm is committed to protecting the health and welfare of both companion animals and companion animal veterinary practices. As a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Sumitomo Corporation and part of the Sumitomo Corporation group of companies, Summit VetPharm is backed by a longstanding reputation for values and ethics in business and is dedicated to raising the standards in animal health. Summit VetPharm is headquartered in Fort Lee, New Jersey, USA. For more information, visit Summit VetPharm at www.summitvetpharm.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 11, 2008
Contact: Jewelle Yamada – (212) 207-0574

Summit VetPharm Announces Winner of 2-year Lease on 2008 Subaru Outback

Dr. Elizabeth Rogers, DVM, of the Animal Medical Center of Plano in Frisco, Texas, was chosen as the Grand Prize winner of a 2-year lease on a 2008 Subaru Outback. Dr. Rogers name was randomly selected from entries submitted by attendees of the January North American Veterinary Conference (NAVC) held in Orlando, Florida . Drawing participants entered the contest by visiting the Summit VetPharm booth and either purchasing or agreeing to learn more about Vectra 3D, the company’s new broad-spectrum topical that effectively protects dogs against three vectors – fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes.

Upon graduation from the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2000, Dr. Rogers began practicing companion animal medicine in Coppell, Texas. In September 2002, she joined the Animal Medical Center of Plano. In addition to cats and dogs, she enjoys working with exotic small mammals especially rabbits, ferrets, chinchillas, guinea pigs, hamsters, rats, and mice. She does volunteer work with Rabbit Rescue and wildlife rehabilitation.

“I was extremely surprised to be the winner of such a great prize,” said Dr. Rogers. “I stopped by the Summit VetPharm booth at NAVC to learn more about their new Vectra 3D product and entered the contest. A few weeks later, the phone rang and I was thrilled to learn I was the owner of a brand new car!”

Dr. Rogers is a member of The American Veterinary Medical Association; The Texas Veterinary Medical Association; The Dallas County Veterinary Medical Association; The American Animal Hospital Association; The Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society; and The Texas Academy of Veterinary Practice.

Another lucky winner of a 2-year lease on a 2008 Subaru Outback will be chosen from the contest entries from the recent Western Veterinary Conference (WVC) which was held in Las Vegas.

Summit VetPharm

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 8, 2008
Contact: Jewelle Yamada – (212) 207-0574

Summit VetPharm Introduces New Feline Topicals Vectra™ for Cats & Kittens and Vectra™ for Cats

First Topical Products Available that Kills Fleas in just 6 Hours

Summit VetPharm today announced the introduction of a new flea treatment. Vectra™ for Cats & Kittens and Vectra™ for Cats feature a combination of Dinotefuran and Pyriproxyfen that delivers rapid, effective and more complete relief for cats and kittens.

The new Vectra product:
     • Kills adult fleas within six hours.
     • Kills fleas that may transmit disease, including bartonellosis, tapeworm and tularemia.
     • Controls the development of all flea stages: eggs, larvae and pupae for at least one month.
     • Can be used on kittens as young as 8 weeks of age.

Dinotefuran is a novel, fast-acting third generation neonicotinoid not previously used on felines with a unique mode of action. Pyriproxifen, a superior second-generation insect growth regulator, controls the development of immature fleas and exhibits long-lasting activity on cats and kittens.

In side-by-side comparisons, Vectra outperformed the two leading feline treatments at two, six and 12 hours post treatment, in terms of adulticidal speed of kill. In flea reduction and egg hatchability studies, of the few eggs collected from Vectra-treated cats, all (100%) failed to hatch.

“Veterinarians have been waiting for a product like Vectra for Cats & Kittens and Vectra for Cats,” said Dr. Albert H. Ahn, DVM. “The chronic nature of flea control contributes to the potential for resistant fleas. Our feline product is a novel formulation fleas have never encountered.”

Vectra is colorless, odor-free, non-greasy and quick-drying. The unique, patented applicator features an elongated tip that makes it easy to apply to a feline’s skin through the haircoat. The rounded tip minimizes risk of skin abrasions. The easy-to-open applicator eliminates splash back and spilling, and the contoured shape makes it easier to handle. With the one-piece applicator, there is no need to use scissors to open or remove a cap, making application fast, efficient and easy.

“We've received rave reviews from veterinarians and pet owners about our applicator,” said Ahn. “It not only makes application easier and cleaner, the applicator makes it easier to reach the cat’s skin so that product is not spilled during the application.”

Vectra™ for Cats & Kittens and Vectra for Cats are protected with Summit VetPharm’s Bloodhound™ Technology - an innovative, proprietary track and trace system that ensures veterinary exclusivity of the product. Each package of Vectra can be traced from the point of manufacture to veterinarian purchase. Bloodhound Technology allows Summit VetPharm to maintain the integrity of its products through a secure distribution channel, as well as guarding against counterfeiting.

“By securing our supply chain, we are able to protect the veterinary professional, maintain authenticity of our products, and enhance the role of veterinarians in the lives of the animals they treat. Through our Bloodhound Technology, we can help keep companion animal health exactly where it belongs — in the hands of professionals,” says Julia Stephanus, president and CEO of Summit VetPharm.

The new cat formula in the Vectra family of products is available to pet owners only through licensed veterinarians.

Vectra for Cats & Kittens is available in 3-dose and 6-dose packages: 0.8 mL for cats and kittens 8 weeks and older and less than 9 lbs. Vectra for Cats is available in 3-dose and 6-dose packages: 1.2 mL for cats weighing 9 lbs. and over.

Vectra for Cats & Kittens, Vectra for Cats and Vectra 3D for Dogs are available to veterinarians through Summit VetPharm and Abbott Animal Health sales representatives, as well as from the following distributors: Associated Medical Supply, Great Western Animal Health, Midwest Veterinary Supply, Inc., Merritt Veterinary Supplies, Inc., Henry Schein Animal Health, NLS Animal Health, Northeast Veterinary Supply Company (NEVSCO), PCI Animal Health, Sanum Puerto Rico, Inc.

Summit VetPharm

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 8, 2008
Contact: Jewelle Yamada – (212) 207-0547

Summit VetPharm Addressed Veterinarian Diverted Vectra 3D™

This week, Summit VetPharm identified the first instance of a veterinarian who was diverting its veterinary exclusive Vectra 3D™ flea and tick product. This situation, where product was found available for sale on a popular website targeting pet owners, is a clear violation of the Company’s anti-diversion policy.

Summit VetPharm, after confirming the identity of the California veterinarian, swiftly implemented corrective action against this individual. By utilizing the proprietary Summit VetPharm Bloodhound™ track and trace technology, the company was able to immediately pinpoint where the violation had occurred. Within six hours of legal notification to the veterinarian, the diverted product was no longer available for sale.

“I am delighted that our Bloodhound track and trace technology provided us with rapid identification which allowed us to pursue immediate action against this individual who appears to have willfully violated our signed anti-diversion contract and placed our product outside the veterinary channel for sale,” stated Julia Stephanus, president and CEO of Summit VetPharm. Vectra 3D and all Summit VetPharm products are exclusively dispensed by licensed veterinarians. We will not tolerate product diversion because it undermines the relationship between veterinarians and pet owners and raises questions about product integrity.”

“Veterinary response across the country has been unanimously positive about Summit VetPharm’s commitment to the profession,” stated Dr. Albert Ahn, DVM. “Over the years, veterinarians have expressed their concerns to me that companies were unwilling or unable to stop unauthorized product diversion. The veterinarians I have spoken with are genuinely impressed with the commitment that Summit VetPharm has made. One of the core principles upon which our company was founded was the commitment to ensure that our products are developed and made available exclusively through licensed veterinarians. By securing our supply chain, we are able to protect the veterinary professional, maintain authenticity of our products, and enhance the role of veterinarians in the lives of the animals they treat,” continued Dr. Ahn.

“We will remain vigilant for future instances of product diversion. Our goal is to keep companion animal health exactly where it belongs — in the hands of professionals. The terms of our Anti-Diversion Agreement strictly prohibit the sale of Vectra 3D outside of the veterinary-client-patient relationship. This agreement explicitly states that sales outside of this relationship will result in legal action against the identified veterinary diverter and any third parties involved in that diversion,” continued Julia Stephanus.

Vectra 3D’s new triple-action topical ectoparasiticide formula is available to pet owners only through licensed veterinarians. Vectra 3D is available in four different sizes: for dogs and puppies over 7 weeks of age weighing 2.5 to 20 pounds; 21 to 55 pounds; 56 to 95 pounds, and for dogs over 95 pounds. Vectra 3D is currently available to veterinarians from the following distributors: NLS Animal Health, Henry Schein Animal Health, Midwest Veterinary Supply, Inc., Merritt Veterinary Supplies, Inc., Associated Medical Supply, Great Western Animal Health Supply, Northeast Veterinary Supply Company (NEVSCO), Victor Medical Company, PCI Animal Health and Sanum Puerto Rico, Inc.

Summit VetPharm

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 1, 2008
Contact: Jewelle Yamada – (212) 207-0574

Summit VetPharm has Identified Two Instances of Diverted Vectra 3D™

This week, Summit VetPharm has identified two instances where its veterinary exclusive Vectra 3D™ product has been found on the websites of internet pharmacies, which is in clear violation of the Company’s anti-diversion policy.

“I am very disappointed that individuals have willfully violated our anti-diversion contract and placed our product outside the veterinary channel for sale,” stated Julia Stephanus, president and CEO of Summit VetPharm. Vectra 3D and all Summit VetPharm products are exclusively dispensed by licensed veterinarians. We will not tolerate product diversion because it undermines the relationship between veterinarians and pet owners and raises questions about product integrity.”

Summit VetPharm swiftly implemented corrective action against the first instance of attempted product diversion which occurred in Arizona. In the case of the second occurrence, we have determined the source to be originating in California and Summit VetPharm is aggressively investigating this situation so that it can be rectified as quickly as possible. Utilizing the proprietary Summit VetPharm Bloodhound™ track and trace technology, we have been able to pinpoint where the violations have occurred.

“Veterinarians are highly concerned by product diversion of flea and tick as well as other animal health products. Fellow practitioners have expressed their concerns to me and we will fully enforce our anti-diversion policy. One of the core principles upon which our company was founded was the commitment to ensure that our products are developed and made available exclusively through licensed veterinarians. By securing our supply chain, we are able to protect the veterinary professional, maintain authenticity of our products, and enhance the role of veterinarians in the lives of the animals they treat,” stated Dr. Albert Ahn, DVM.

“Through our Bloodhound Technology and our legally-binding anti-diversion agreement, which must be signed by the practice owner prior to a purchase of Vectra 3D, we can keep companion animal health exactly where it belongs — in the hands of professionals. The terms strictly prohibit the sale of Vectra 3D outside of the veterinary client patient relationship. This agreement explicitly states that sales outside of this relationship will result in legal action against both the identified veterinary diverter as well as any potential reseller of the product. Veterinarian response to the Summit VetPharm anti-diversion policy and the proprietary Bloodhound technology has been overwhelmingly positive,” continued Julia Stephanus.

Vectra 3D’s new triple-action topical ectoparasiticide formula is available to pet owners only through licensed veterinarians. Vectra 3D is available in four different sizes: for dogs and puppies over 7 weeks of age weighing 2.5 to 20 pounds; 21 to 55 pounds; 56 to 95 pounds, and for dogs over 95 pounds. Vectra 3D is currently available to veterinarians from the following distributors: NLS Animal Health, a division of Henry Schein Inc, Midwest Veterinary Supply, Inc., Merritt Veterinary Supplies, Inc., Associated Medical, Great Western, Northeast Veterinary Supply Company, Victor Medical Company and Sanum Puerto Rico, Inc.

Summit VetPharm

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 22, 2008
Contact: Jewelle Yamada – (212) 207-0574

Summit VetPharm Awarded Official Stamp of Approval by The Alliance of Veterinary Hospital Owners (AVHO) for its Commitment to Anti-Diversion Policy

Summit VetPharm, an animal healthcare company committed to the veterinary professional and the authenticity of their products, received an official stamp of approval for its anti-diversion policies from The Alliance of Veterinary Hospital Owners (AVHO), a newly formed non-profit organization of independent animal hospital owners. AVHO awards a stamp of approval to animal healthcare companies who are dedicated to ethical business practices and the integrity of their products.

Summit VetPharm ensures that its products are dispensed only through licensed veterinarians through its new Bloodhound™ Technology, an innovative track and trace system. Any veterinarian interested in selling a Summit VetPharm product are required to sign a written agreement that helps the company maintain the integrity of its products through a secure distribution channel as well as guarding against the growing problem of diversion and counterfeiting.

Founded by Dr. Phillip Raclyn, DVM CVA, AVHO supports independent animal hospital owners in their business practices and management. According to Dr. Raclyn, “Our organization is the only one that represents veterinarians who own and operate independent animal hospitals and helps them communicate their concerns to the animal healthcare and drug manufacturers. We found an important issue among veterinarians was the OTC sale of veterinary products. AVHO was pleased to find out that Summit VetPharm was the first company to have an anti-diversion policy and we appreciate their commitment to the veterinary profession and the exclusivity of their products.”

AVHO also provides independent reviews of products, services, companies and organizations for the benefit of all its members. For more information, please visit www.AVHO.net