Merial Sponsors Bovine Ultrasound Clinics for Veterinarians
Clinic will help veterinarians maximize efficiency of bovine reproduction

DULUTH, Ga. — February 7, 2008 — Merial, the maker of CYSTORELIN^® (gonadorelin diacetate tetrahydrate), the No. 1 selling GnRH,¹ is sponsoring a series of bovine reproductive ultrasound classes for veterinarians. These classes will provide hands-on, in-depth instruction in the use of ultrasound for bovine reproductive exams and will be held in Bell, Fla. (March 13-14); and Cortland, N.Y. (April 3-4).

Craig DeMuth, DVM, and Jill Colloton, DVM, are the instructors of the seminars that include classroom and on-farm curriculum. “Bovine reproduction can be improved by learning about technological advancements,” says Dr. DeMuth. “Efficient reproduction takes the right tools. The goal of these classes is to educate veterinarians about current practices, products and technologies that can maximize efficiency when it comes to reproduction.”

“Merial is proud to sponsor these clinics that provide training for veterinarians about the latest technologies, products and research that is available in the area of cattle production,” says Dr. Frank Hurtig, Director of Vet Services for Merial.

“Efficient reproduction starts with effective products. CYSTORELIN treats ovarian follicular cysts to activate the process leading to estrus.”

Bovine reproduction is critical to the overall success and profit of cattle operations. A missed pregnancy costs $450 on average.²

“Good reproductive performance starts with a healthy reproductive tract, especially ovaries,” says Dr. Hurtig. “In a trial, CYSTORELIN induced ovulation in 95 percent of cows.³ CYSTORELIN can be used with confidence to help cow herds conceive and calve on schedule.”

The classroom portion of the ultrasound course will cover what to look for when purchasing an ultrasound unit; practical tips for using ultrasound in the field; video demonstration of ultrasound imaging; current topics in bovine reproduction; and how ultrasound works. The on-farm portion includes: identifying normal and abnormal ovarian and uterine morphology; early pregnancy diagnosis and fetal viability; fetal sexing; and twin diagnosis.

Attendees of the clinic can apply for nine hours of continuing education credits. For more information and to register, log on to www.bovineservices.com or call Dr. Jill Colloton at (715) 352-2232. For more information on CYSTORELIN, visit www.merial.com.

Merial is a world-leading, innovation-driven animal health company, providing a comprehensive range of products to enhance the health, well-being and performance of a wide range of animals. Merial develops, manufactures and markets a wide range of companion and production animal pharmaceuticals and vaccines. Merial employs approximately 5,000 people and operates in more than 150 countries worldwide. Its 2006 sales were nearly $2.2 billion. Merial Limited is a joint venture between Merck & Co. Inc. and sanofi-aventis. For more information, please visit www.merial.com.

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