Recall Alert: Contaminated Joint Supplement, New Leptospirosis Vaccine Data, AVMA Policy Update
Recall: NutraFlex canine joint supplement pulled for heavy metal contamination
NutraVet Labs has issued a voluntary recall of three lots of its NutraFlex Joint Support chews for dogs after independent testing detected lead levels exceeding FDA action limits. The affected lots were distributed to retail and online channels in 38 states between January and February 2026.
Details: Lot numbers NF-2026-01A, NF-2026-01B, and NF-2026-02A are affected. Lead concentrations ranged from 3.2 to 5.8 ppm, well above the 0.5 ppm action level.
What to tell clients: Pet parents who have purchased NutraFlex Joint Support should stop use immediately and contact NutraVet Labs for a full refund. Dogs showing signs of lethargy, GI distress, or neurological changes after supplement use should be evaluated.
New leptospirosis vaccine shows broader serovar coverage in field trial
Results from a multi-center field trial published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine show a next-generation quadrivalent leptospirosis vaccine produced protective titers against six serovars, including Bratislava and Australis, which are poorly covered by current products.
The data: The trial enrolled 842 dogs across 12 practices in endemic regions. At 12 months post-vaccination, 94% of dogs maintained protective titers against all six tested serovars, compared to 71% with the current market-leading product.
Why it matters: Leptospirosis cases have been rising in suburban and urban areas as wildlife corridors expand. Broader serovar coverage could significantly reduce breakthrough infections.
Timeline: The manufacturer has submitted data to the USDA Center for Veterinary Biologics. Conditional approval is expected by Q3 2026.
AVMA revises scope-of-practice policy for veterinary technicians
The AVMA House of Delegates approved a revised policy on veterinary technician scope of practice, formally endorsing expanded roles for credentialed veterinary technicians (CVTs) in areas including dental prophylaxis, anesthesia monitoring, and client communication of treatment plans.
What changed: The previous policy, last updated in 2018, used broader language that left interpretation largely to state practice acts. The new version explicitly lists 14 tasks that the AVMA considers appropriate for CVT performance under veterinary supervision.
The debate: Proponents argue the update reflects how most practices already operate and will help address workforce shortages. Critics, including some state VMAs, worry about standardization challenges and liability implications.
Next steps: The policy is advisory. State legislatures and veterinary medical boards will determine how (and whether) to incorporate the recommendations into practice acts.