Zoetis and Leachman Cattle of Colorado Enter Contract to Advance Genetic Improvement in Commercial Cattle

New agreement combines Leachman data with Zoetis expertise to expand the accuracy of breeding, selection and marketing decisions.

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (October 22, 2018)—Zoetis today announced a new data and testing agreement with Leachman Cattle of Colorado to provide a unique genomically enhanced genetic evaluation.

Genomically enhanced evaluations, in which genomic data is combined with pedigree and phenotypic records for a designated population of animals, allow for more accurate and reliable genetic selection tools. The analyses resulting from this agreement will leverage Leachman’s multi-breed database that houses over one million animal records and the latest genomic technology from Zoetis to improve profitability for ranching families.

“We believe the Zoetis technology can improve both the reliability of our predictions and our herd’s rate of genetic improvement,” said Lee Leachman, founder of Leachman Cattle of Colorado. “Our goal is to be a global leader in the genetic improvement of beef cattle. Combining our expansive, multibreed database with Zoetis’ genetic evaluation expertise and our $Profit® technology should ensure we achieve that goal.”

An evolving relationship
 Zoetis and Leachman have enjoyed long-standing business ties; this new agreement will result in even more dependable genetic predictions. “We are contracting with Zoetis to help make our EPDs even more reliable. Our experience has shown that Zoetis is the most dependable in the industry,” Leachman said.

“This is a natural progression,” said Jason Osterstock, executive director, Global Genetics at Zoetis. “Leachman and Zoetis both have a keen focus on the profitability and success of commercial cattlemen.”

With access to the analytic pipelines and genomic expertise that are synonymous with Zoetis, Leachman will be able to achieve greater genomic advancements as part of their breeding program and further their focus on success of producers.

 Zoetis has extensive experience in bovine genetics, including development of the first commercially available genetic evaluation designed for cow and calf wellness traits in U.S. Holstein cattle. Zoetis leadership in technological advancements also includes multiple commercially available genomic offerings across many beef and dairy breeds.

The addition of Leachman’s data from one million animals will strengthen the reliability of Zoetis genomics testing in beef cattle and may lead to future genomic innovation for beef cattle producers.

 Zoetis (NYSE: ZTS) is the leading animal health company, dedicated to supporting its customers and their businesses. Building on more than 60 years of experience in animal health, Zoetis discovers, develops, manufactures and markets veterinary vaccines and medicines, complemented by diagnostic products, genetic tests, biodevices and a range of services. Zoetis serves

veterinarians, livestock producers and people who raise and  care for farm and companion animals with sales of its products in more than 100 countries. In 2017, the company generated annual revenue of $5.3 billion with approximately 9,000 employees.

For more information, visit www.zoetisUS.com.