Growing Pet-Care Industry Puts Veterinary Diagnostics in Focus at Vivian Academy’s First Vet Expo

As pet owners increasingly view their animals as family members, expectations around veterinary care are evolving, placing greater emphasis on preventive healthcare, early diagnosis and informed clinical decisions.

These developments provided the broader context for the first Vet Expo hosted by Vivian’s MediTech division, which brought together around 55 registered veterinary surgeons to explore diagnostic technology, clinical practice and professional education.

The event was organised with the support of IDEXX Laboratories, a global provider of veterinary diagnostic products and services and was also addressed by Parliamentary Secretary for Animal Welfare Alicia Bugeja Said.

Research has highlighted how attitudes towards pet healthcare vary across generations. A 2019 report by IDEXX Laboratories found that millennials were more likely to visit veterinarians frequently and more willing to embrace advanced standards of care. The study also found that approximately 42% of millennials believed their pets had special health needs, more than twice the proportion among baby boomers.

A more recent report published by Euromonitor International in 2025 showed that 69% of millennial respondents considered pets members of their family, findings that reflect the growing importance of pets in consumers’ lives and the associated demand for premium pet products and services.

This trend is also reflected in industry performance. IDEXX Laboratories reported second-quarter 2026 revenue of approximately US$1.217 billion, up 9.7% year-on-year, while recurring revenue from its Companion Animal Group diagnostics business grew by 11%.

“The Vivian Academy’s first Vet Expo reflects our ongoing commitment to bringing professionals together around clinical education, emerging technologies and developments in animal healthcare,” said Claire Anastasi of Vivian Academy.

The expo showcased diagnostic solutions from IDEXX Laboratories, which Vivian has represented in Malta for more than 15 years. Highlights included the introduction of the IDEXX SediVue Dx urine sediment analyser to the Maltese veterinary community. Using automated microscopy and image analysis, the system examines urine sediment to help identify clinically relevant findings.

Rodienne Conti, MediTech Sales and Business Development Manager at Vivian Vivian acknowledged that the successful adoption of diagnostic technology requires more than equipment.

“Currently, the main challenges faced by veterinarians in Malta are not only limited to the investment in technology but also include access to trained technical personnel and veterinary nurses,” notes Ms Conti.

“From our end, Vivian supports veterinary practices through product distribution, training, technical expertise and after-sales servicing and now, through our Vivian Academy, we are also supporting professionals with continued professional development and knowledge exchange,” she added.

The scientific programme featured Dr Ana Jacinto presenting Taking the Stress Out of Diagnosing and Monitoring Adrenal Disease, and Dr Olga Leściorz discussing The Clinical Value of Urinalysis: Enhancing Diagnostic Insights With IDEXX SediVue Dx.

Both presentations highlighted the role of diagnostic tools and clinical knowledge in supporting informed veterinary decision-making.

“Bringing internationally developed diagnostic technologies and expertise closer to Maltese veterinary professionals provides an opportunity to support clinical learning and encourage the effective use of diagnostic solutions in everyday practice,” she concluded.

Vivian is considering making the Vet Expo an annual or twice-yearly event, although future dates have not yet been confirmed.