HealthforAnimals

HealthforAnimals is the global animal medicines association, representing the manufacturers of veterinary pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and other animal health products. Founded in 1995 and headquartered in Brussels, it serves as a leading voice for the Animal health industry on the international stage. The organization advocates for policies that support innovation in Veterinary medicine and promotes the vital role of animal health within the broader One Health framework, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.

Overview

Established in the mid-1990s, HealthforAnimals operates as a crucial interface between the Animal health industry and global regulatory and policy-making bodies. Its membership comprises many of the world's leading companies involved in research, development, and manufacturing of products that prevent and treat disease in both companion animals and food-producing animals. The association engages with major international institutions including the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Health Organization (WHO) to shape discussions on topics ranging from Antimicrobial resistance to Zoonotic disease prevention. Its work is fundamentally aligned with advancing the One Health agenda, emphasizing that animal health is indispensable for Food security, sustainable agriculture, and public health.

Mission and objectives

The core mission of HealthforAnimals is to foster a world where animal health is prioritized as a cornerstone of a sustainable future. A primary objective is advocating for a policy and regulatory environment that encourages continuous Innovation in animal medicines, ensuring veterinarians and farmers have access to the most effective tools. The organization actively promotes the responsible use of veterinary products, including antimicrobials, to combat the global threat of Antimicrobial resistance. Furthermore, it seeks to elevate understanding of how animal health investments directly benefit Global health security, economic development, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. This involves extensive communication efforts to demonstrate the value of Vaccination programs and preventative healthcare in animals.

Key activities and programs

HealthforAnimals executes its mission through a diverse portfolio of activities centered on Research, Education, and Advocacy. It commissions and publishes significant studies and reports, such as its global animal health surveys, which provide data on disease prevalence and the economic benefits of veterinary care. The association runs advocacy campaigns targeting policymakers at forums like the G20 and the European Union to integrate animal health into broader food and agricultural policies. It also develops educational resources for stakeholders on critical issues like Parasite control and Animal welfare. A key programmatic area involves supporting capacity building in Veterinary services in developing regions, often in partnership with entities like the World Bank and national agricultural ministries, to improve disease surveillance and outbreak response.

Member organizations and governance

The association is governed by a board of directors elected from its member companies, which include multinational corporations and regional leaders in the Animal health industry. Prominent members have historically included companies such as Zoetis, Boehringer Ingelheim, Merck Animal Health, and Elanco. The governance structure ensures representation from various sectors, including Poultry health, Ruminant health, and Pet healthcare. Day-to-day operations are managed by a professional secretariat based in Brussels, which coordinates policy work, communications, and engagement with international bodies like the International Coalition for Animal Medicines and regional associations. This structure allows for a unified, evidence-based industry voice in global dialogues.

Impact and advocacy

Through its sustained advocacy, HealthforAnimals has significantly influenced international policy frameworks concerning animal health. The organization has been instrumental in promoting the adoption of Vaccination as a primary tool for disease prevention, thereby reducing reliance on antimicrobials. Its research and position papers are frequently cited in reports by the World Organisation for Animal Health and the Food and Agriculture Organization. The association's efforts in highlighting the link between animal health and Climate change adaptation, as well as its work on combating African swine fever and Avian influenza, have shaped funding priorities and collaborative actions among nations. By championing the One Health approach, HealthforAnimals has helped solidify the understanding that protecting animal health is essential for safeguarding communities and economies worldwide.

Category:International medical and health organizations Category:Organizations based in Brussels Category:Animal health organizations