April 15, 2026, Calgary, AB – Alberta-based Solvet, a subsidiary of Alberta Veterinary Laboratories Ltd. has announced a strategic partnership for its companion animal division with
McCarthy Veterinary Supplies (“McCarthy Vet”), a family-owned company from Airdrie, Alberta, with the goal of delivering greater value to veterinarians and pet owners across Canada.
Established in 2009 by Dr. Merle Olson and Dr. Barbara Olson, Solvet is a family-owned company supplying animal health and pharmaceutical products to livestock producers,
veterinarians, and pet owners in Canada and globally. As one of North America’s only animal health companies focusing on livestock welfare and pain management, Solvet’s work meets a
critical need across several sectors. This partnership represents a targeted expansion of its companion animal offering, aligning with McCarthy Vet’s long-standing expertise in this segment.
“Solvet is pleased to form a strategic partnership with another Alberta-based, family-owned Canadian company, McCarthy Vet,” said Lionel Gibbs, Chief Executive Officer of Solvet. “This
collaboration is specifically focused on our companion animal division, enabling us to strengthen our impact and expand access to essential products for veterinarians and pet owners.”
McCarthy Veterinary Supplies is a full-service veterinary supply company that has exclusively served Canadian veterinarians for over 60 years, with a strong focus on innovative products,
exceptional service, and industry-leading solutions tailored for the Canadian market.
“We are delighted to partner with Solvet,” stated Jon Owens, CFO & Owner of McCarthy Vet. “Together, we are setting a new standard for the Canadian animal health industry. We are
excited to support ongoing research and product development at Solvet while helping meet the evolving needs of the companion animal industry.”
This partnership brings together Solvet’s product development expertise with McCarthy Vet’s countrywide presence to better serve the veterinary and companion animal community. By aligning commercial, product, and field teams, the collaboration will enhance service levels and expand access to Canadian-made solutions designed specifically for companion animals and the
pet owners.
“Solvet is a trusted leader in the animal health sector and is dedicated to improving animal health and supporting those who make it possible,” commented Dr. Merle Olson, Solvet Co-Founder and VP of Research & Development. “This partnership marks an important step forward in expanding our reach and impact across Canada and within the companion animal community.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Lionel Gibbs, Chief Executive Officer, Solvet
(403) 392-0158
lionel.gibbs@avetlabs.com
About Solvet: Founded by the Olson family in 2009, Solvet meets the veterinary pharmaceutical needs of producers and pet owners. With an innovative business model, they develop products by listening to customers and producing them at their headquarters in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. www.solvet.ca
About McCarthy Veterinary Supplies: For over 60 years, McCarthy Vet has been a trusted source of information, innovation and expertise. They adhere to and uphold the principles of excellence in animal care, which are reflected in their core values, the quality of service they offer and the people and companies they partner with. www.mccarthyvet.com
