WESTLAKE, TEXAS — On Jan. 7, Virbac announced its partnership with biotechnology company Emmyon, Inc. to introduce a new pet supplement targeting muscle health: URSOLYX™ Soft Chews. The chews are specifically designed to enhance muscle function and strength in aging, active and recovering dogs, representing a “scientific breakthrough” in canine muscle support, according to Virbac.

Muscle atrophy impacts more than half of dogs aged seven and older, leading to reduced mobility and a diminished quality of life, according to Virbac. To help improve muscle health, the company teamed up with Emmyon, which specializes in identifying compounds that support muscle health, to create URSOLYX Soft Chews.

The chews are formulated with ursolic acid, a natural compound derived from sage that has been shown to support muscle health. A placebo-controlled study on senior dogs with age-related muscle loss found that ursolic acid improves skeletal muscle mRNA biomarkers, enhances exercise performance and agility, and is safe and highly palatable.

“At Virbac, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of animal health,” said Giovanni Abruzzini, president and chief executive officer of Virbac US. “URSOLYX™ Soft Chews redefine what’s possible for canine mobility, empowering veterinarians to address muscle health proactively to help their patients’ health span keep pace with their lifespan.”

In addition to ursolic acid, URSOLYX Soft Chews feature a patented formula to help ensure optimal absorption and efficacy, according to Virbac. The chews come in a bacon flavor and are available in dosages for small, medium and large dogs. 

Virbac’s URSOLYX Soft Chews will launch at the 2025 Veterinary Meeting and Expo, held from Jan. 25 to 29 in Orlando, Fla., and later at the Viticus Group™ WVC conference, held from March 2 to 5 in Las Vegas. 

Read more about pet supplement products and trends.