Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Changes in Carrying Value of Goodwill (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 29, 2017 USD ($)
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 816,592
Other Activity	(3,045)
Ending Balance	813,547
Operating Segments [Member] | Dental [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	139,129
Other Activity	(840)
Ending Balance	138,289
Operating Segments [Member] | Animal Health [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	677,463
Other Activity	(2,205)
Ending Balance	675,258
Operating Segments [Member] | Corporate [Member]
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	0
Other Activity	0
Ending Balance	$ 0