An increase in stray animals in the heavily populated areas on the edge of Springfield has prompted the Greene County Commission to approve the county`s first-ever animal control ordinance.

Increasing interest of the government in the health conditions of animals due to the outbreak of bird flu and foot-and-mouth disease has boosted demand for high-quality ingredients in animal feed.

Animal Health International Inc. registered Thursday for an initial public offering of up to $155.25 million in common stock, according to a prospectus filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.