Richard Wood, Chief Executive of Genus, announces the promotion of Dr. Bill Christianson to Chief Operating Officer for Genus Americas; replacing Ian Biggs who was recently named Head of Global Product and Business Strategy for Genus. Additionally, Dr. Noel Williams has been named as General Manager of PIC North America.

Christianson will be responsible for both the ABS & PIC business units in North and South America. Christianson received his undergraduate degree from St. Johns University and DVM and Ph.D from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine. He joined PIC in 1993 had has held ever expanding roles, most recently at General Manager of PIC North America. more

First phase of Web resource launched

WEST DES MOINES, Iowa – February 2, 2010 – Newsham Choice Genetics, the leader in pig genomics, is launching a new Web site to benefit pork producers. This first phase of Newsham’s Web strategy better showcases its swine genomics expertise, and allows for future development of an all-encompassing platform for producers to understand the value of genomics science.

Newsham’s focus is to provide producers with science-based information and product data that will help them produce the most profitable and genetically superior pork in the industry. Newsham utilizes proprietary gene marker technologies, indexing and selection processes to provide unprecedented rate of change in genetic progress. With Newsham’s technology and genetic product experience producers have every opportunity to ‘Map your Success.’ more

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (February 1, 2010) – In response to its growing swine business and need for technical field support, Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc., (BIVI) announces the promotion of three professional service veterinarians.

Tom Wetzell, DVM, has been promoted to senior veterinarian, Swine Professional Services, for BIVI’s Midwest region, which includes Minnesota and Iowa. Dr. Wetzell will provide technical product and customer service support for the region. Prior to joining BIVI, Dr. Wetzell was in practice for more than 30 years, during which time he received the American Association of Swine Veterinarians’ “Swine Practitioner of the Year award” in 2004. Dr. Wetzell, who received his doctor of veterinary medicine from the University of Minnesota, will continue to reside in Wells, Minn. more

Loose Stools Cause Concerns in the Virtual Barn

New York (Feb. 1, 2010)—Pfizer Animal Health is releasing the next scenario for the “Virtual Walk the Pens” simulator. The simulator is an online educational tool that can be played from any standard computer and is intended to help demonstrate the importance of Individual Pig Care.

In the ninth scenario, players must walk the virtual barn to determine if the loose stool reported by another caretaker is cause for concern. As always, the virtual veterinarian is on hand to help advise players in this scenario. more