According to Dr. Stephen Connell, manager of technical, academic and consumer services for the company, scientists have been evaluating Lilly’s library of proprietary molecules for pet use over the last seven years. The company will apply the same “Answers That Matter” philosophy to its companion animal products as it has to delivering breakthrough medicines and medical expertise to fulfill unmet needs in human medicine.

“We appreciate that the companion animal sector is a dynamic marketplace, and our value to the profession will be measured by the performance of our products and our people,” said Eric Graves, the company’s director of companion animal health.

The company’s first product introductions are expected within the year, pending approval by the FDA. The medicines will address serious conditions that negatively affect both pet health and the human-pet bond, including separation anxiety and canine obesity.

“Lilly respects the relationships veterinarians have with both their clients and their patients,” Graves said. “We join veterinarians as partners and will empower them with a family of innovative products and supportive people all focused on improving pet health and enhancing the human-pet bond.” [March 2007 PET AGE]