An idea stemming from a genuine need, extensive collaborative networks, and confidence in one’s work—these are the foundations of successful product development.
Vetcare, founded by veterinarians, places the development of its own products at the core of its operations. The most crucial element in developing a new product is a good idea based on a real need. This ensures the product has genuine novelty value and can be priced in a way that makes its production profitable. Before deciding to advance a project, we always consider whether the product will promote animal welfare. At its best, the products we develop have also improved treatment practices for the better.
In the 1990s, when the company was founded, there was a significant shift occurring in veterinary medicine. It was during this time that our collaboration with the University of Helsinki’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine began. At the same time as global discussions on the threat of antibiotic resistance emerged, Vetcare was revolutionizing Finnish mastitis treatment practices. This included the development and market introduction of PCR-based diagnostics, an intramammary preparation containing only penicillin, and a beta-lactamase preparation that breaks down penicillin. This allowed a transition from “shotgun therapy” to targeted treatment based on research, thereby minimizing antibiotic resistance and residues.
In product development, only together you can go far
As the saying goes, if you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together. The journey of developing an animal drug from an idea to a medication is long and expensive.The journey of developing an animal drug from an idea to a medication is long and expensive. To achieve sufficiently large markets for a developed product, we generally aim for international markets with our own products. International markets require strong partnerships and distribution networks.
Succeeding internationally also requires understanding cultural differences, even in matters such as medication administration. For example, in some countries, pain medication is preferably given orally rather than via injection. Extensive research connections are also crucial for international expansion. They provide credibility, and local research connections can be leveraged to support marketing efforts. This approach has been used, for instance, in the United States market.
Vetcare's policy on publishing scientific research has always been open. We believe that all information about a product—whether good or bad—is in the best interest of users. We have always firmly believed in our products and our work. We develop niche products for specific needs, with the goal of creating the best possible products rather than maximizing profits. In the long run, such transparency builds a good reputation for the company, as all effects of the product are as widely studied and known as possible.
Expanding Collaborative Product Development
We aim to further expand our collaboration with the research community in the future. Together with the University of Helsinki, we are set to seek new ideas or even potential product concepts.
In practice, this means regular theme-based meetings with researchers. In these meetings, we have the opportunity to discuss and present our ideas to each other. Over the past few years, we have closely collaborated with the departments of reproductive sciences and pharmacology. It is fascinating to hear about the research other groups are conducting or planning.
When I started at Vetcare in 2010, it was a return to my roots in research and product development. I began my research career in 1990 focusing on mastitis, but before joining Vetcare, I spent ten years in administrative roles at the current Finnish Food Authority. It has been rewarding to be involved in developing successful products that genuinely impact animal welfare. Although research activities take place in laboratories and clinical settings, knowing people is essential in this work as well.
Ahead by a snout, Vesa
Author: Vesa Myllys serves as the Director of Research and Product Development at Vetcare.