Merck Animal Health, a division of Kenilworth-based Merck & Co. Inc., announced Wednesday it will acquire the U.S. rights to two Sentinel brands in the companion animal segment.
For $400 million, Merck said it acquired Sentinel’s Flavor Tabs and Spectrum Chews to enhance its offerings in canine parasite protection.
“Veterinary medicines, including parasiticides, and vaccines have transformed the health of animals over the past decade,” Rick DeLuca, president, Merck Animal Health, said. “This product acquisition reinforces Merck Animal Health’s commitment to our customers and our position in the United States Companion Animal category. We plan to use the extensive breadth and depth of our product portfolio … to enhance our offerings of comprehensive pet care solutions. These products will provide a full range of complementary solutions for our customers to improve the health and well-being of animals and the people who care for them.”
The deal is expected to close by mid-year 2020.
Merck Animal Health’s Scott Bormann, senior vice president, North America commercial operations, said the product acquisition is anticipated to provide veterinarians with a comprehensive and continuous parasite protection for dogs in easy to use and eat formulas.
“These brands are well-known and trusted parasiticide products that should continue to provide value to both veterinary clinics and pet owners in the United States for years to come. We believe that Merck Animal Health is the right company, ideally positioned to keep developing these products in a sustainable manner,” François Fournier, CEO and president, Virbac United States, said.
