In the United States, animal health product sales totaled $6.7 billion in 2008. Several national and global research-based companies provide the  pharmaceutical, biological and chemical products that keep animals healthy. These products cannot be marketed until they have gone through a rigorous review process and been approved by the proper regulatory agency. Products for companion animals now comprise more than half of the total animal health market.

In the U.S. companies spend approximately 10 percent of annual sales on research and development. U.S. companies spent $670 million in 2008 for this purpose. In general, the development of a major new animal drug takes 7–10 years and costs $80–$100 million.

The time, care and expense put into research and development ensures a steady stream of new and innovative products that improve the health and well-being of both pets and farm animals, and, in turn, the health and well-being of people.