Washington, DC, March 15, 2018 — A comprehensive new study, “The Economic and Social Contributions of the Animal Health Industry,” documents the value and role that the companies that produce animal medicines play in the US economy and beyond. The results are clear: in its work to improve the health of nearly 10 billion companion and food-producing animals, the animal health industry contributes significant economic and social benefits across America.

Fueled by $9.9 billion in sales of medicines, the U.S. animal health industry employs 21,257 workers,  accounts for more than $1.2 billion in wages and $1.2 billion in taxes, and maintains a positive balance in trade.

Furthermore, animal health products directly contribute to the economic activity of other industries including veterinary services, animal production, meat and dairy production, and pet services. Combined, these four industries generated $548 billion in output, created almost 1.4 million jobs, and paid over $52 billion in wages in 2016.

“With more than 67% of U.S. households owning pets, it’s undeniable that animals are fully integrated into our daily lives,” said Alexander Matthews, Animal Health Institute (AHI)  President & CEO. “But it may be surprising to some that the business of keeping those animals healthy – which also helps keep humans healthy – is a meaningful economic driver in every state in the U.S