Animalcare Group plc, a leading European veterinary pharmaceutical company, and YUN, a Belgian biotech innovator in human probiotherapy, announced a strategic alliance to accelerate the development and commercialisation of microbiome-based veterinary products. This partnership positions Animalcare as the most comprehensive veterinary company in probiotherapy, with a portfolio spanning gastrointestinal, dermatological, and otic health.
Advancing one health through microbiome science
In line with the global One Health strategy, which recognises the deep interconnection between human, animal, and environmental health, both companies are committed to offering innovative, responsible solutions in veterinary care. International health authorities such as the WHO, FAO, and WOAH emphasise the urgent need to reduce antibiotic use and encourage alternatives that support long-term wellbeing.
Probiotherapy seeks to restore the natural microbial balance (microbiome) of the skin, gut, or ears. By reinforcing the body’s own defences through beneficial bacteria, probiotic-based therapies offer a safer, science-backed approach that supports animal health while mitigating antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
“This alliance with YUN strengthens our commitment to microbiome science as a foundation for the future of veterinary medicine,” said Jenny Winter, CEO of Animalcare Group. “By rebalancing the microbiome, we can offer more natural, sustainable solutions that align with One Health goals and veterinary needs.”
Combining human expertise and veterinary reach
YUN brings over a decade of academic research and clinical development in human probiotherapy. Its patented encapsulation technology protects live bacteria, ensuring they remain viable and effective where they are most needed, on the skin, in the mouth, or in mucosal environments.
This breakthrough technology, already applied in dermatological, oral and intimate human care, will now be translated into veterinary use under the Animalcare portfolio.
“We are proud to bring our science to animal health in partnership with Animalcare,” said Tom Verlinden, CEO of YUN. “Our probiotherapeutic solutions are designed to rebalance the microbiome, helping the body heal itself naturally. Together, we can extend that benefit to pets in need.”
A New Standard in Veterinary Probiotherapy
This strategic partnership consolidates Animalcare’s leadership in probiotherapy by combining its established gastrointestinal portfolio with YUN’s innovative solutions for skin and ear health. Together, the combined range now covers three essential therapeutic areas in veterinary medicine:
- Gastrointestinal health – including proCanicare® Plus, proHibex®, and proGlan®, three advanced formulations designed to restore and maintain digestive microbiome balance in dogs and cats.
- Dermatology – proAtop®, a probiotic skin spray for dogs, formulated with live Lactobacillus to help rebalance and maintain the skin microbiome in dogs prone to itching and irritation associated with atopic skin.
- Otic health – proAuris®, probiotic ear drops for dogs, containing live Lactobacillus to support the rebalancing and maintenance of the ear microbiome, especially in cases of bacterial overgrowth or following antibiotic treatment.
María Lasagabaster, Chief Operating Officer at Animalcare, commented: “Skin and ear conditions remain among the most common reasons for veterinary visits. Being able to offer an innovative therapeutic alternative that supports microbiome balance gives veterinarians a new tool to manage these frequent challenges more effectively and more sustainably. This partnership reinforces our mission to deliver meaningful, science-based solutions to our customers.”
The first launches of these products were completed during the first half of 2025 across all European countries where Animalcare is directly represented. The rollout has been supported by veterinary training, scientific communication and dedicated marketing campaigns tailored to each local market. These initiatives have been very well received by veterinarians across all countries
