World Equine Veterinary Association

World Equine Veterinary Association
Name	World Equine Veterinary Association
Founded	0 1985
Type	Non-profit
Focus	Equine medicine
Headquarters	Lexington, Kentucky, United States
Area served	Worldwide
Website	https://www.weva.org

World Equine Veterinary Association. The World Equine Veterinary Association is a global non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of equine veterinary medicine and the welfare of horses worldwide. Founded in the mid-1980s, it serves as a unifying body for equine veterinary professionals, fostering international collaboration, continuing education, and the dissemination of scientific knowledge. Its work is central to addressing health challenges facing equine populations across diverse disciplines, from Thoroughbred racing to working equids in developing regions.

History and formation

The association was formally established in 1985, emerging from a recognized need for a dedicated international forum for veterinarians specializing in equine practice. Its formation was influenced by the growing complexity of equine sports medicine and the global nature of equine disease outbreaks. Early organizational efforts were supported by key figures within the American Association of Equine Practitioners and the British Equine Veterinary Association. The inaugural World Equine Veterinary Association Congress was held, solidifying its role on the world stage. Over the decades, it has evolved from a primarily conference-focused body into a comprehensive organization with a permanent secretariat, now headquartered in the heart of the Bluegrass region in Lexington, Kentucky.

Objectives and mission

The primary mission is to improve horse health and welfare globally by enhancing the knowledge and skills of equine veterinary practitioners. Core objectives include promoting the highest standards of clinical practice and veterinary ethics, facilitating the exchange of scientific information on topics like equine surgery and equine nutrition, and supporting veterinary education in underserved regions. A key focus is advocating for the profession within international bodies such as the World Organisation for Animal Health and the Food and Agriculture Organization. The association also aims to address specific challenges like antimicrobial resistance and the welfare of working equids in collaboration with groups like The Brooke.

Organizational structure

Governance is overseen by an elected Executive Board comprising a President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer, along with regional representatives. Day-to-day operations are managed by an Executive Director and a permanent office staff. The association's work is driven by several standing committees, including those focused on Education, Welfare, and Scientific Publications. Membership is open to veterinarians, veterinary students, and related professionals, with a structure that includes both individual and corporate partner tiers. Regional connectivity is maintained through affiliated societies like the Association of Equine Practitioners of India and the South African Equine Veterinary Association.

Key activities and programs

Its flagship event is the biennial World Equine Veterinary Association Congress, a major scientific meeting rotating to different global locations such as Beijing, Moscow, and Guadalajara. The association organizes specialized symposia and webinar series on emerging issues like Equine Influenza and laminitis. A significant program area is continuing education, offering grants and supporting workshops in regions like Southeast Asia and Latin America. It also runs advocacy campaigns, contributing to guidelines for the transport of horses and disaster response protocols. Collaborative research initiatives often address zoonotic disease threats and the health of sport horses in international competitions.

Publications and resources

The association publishes the peer-reviewed Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, a key resource for research on equine internal medicine and reproduction. It regularly produces position statements and consensus guidelines on critical topics such as equine dentistry and vaccination protocols. Official proceedings from its congresses are disseminated widely. Members receive a regular newsletter featuring updates from the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities and other partners. A comprehensive online resource library provides access to lecture notes, surgical technique videos, and links to resources from institutions like the University of California, Davis and the Animal Health Trust.

Affiliations and partnerships

The association maintains formal affiliations with major continental and national bodies, including the European College of Equine Internal Medicine and the Australian Equine Veterinary Association. It is a recognized collaborating partner with the World Organisation for Animal Health, contributing to the Terrestrial Animal Health Code. Strategic partnerships exist with equine industry groups such as the Fédération Équestre Internationale and the International League for the Protection of Horses. It also works closely with veterinary pharmaceutical companies and diagnostic laboratories on research and education initiatives, and supports the efforts of NGOs like SPANA in field welfare projects.

Category:Veterinary organizations Category:Equine health and welfare Category:International medical and health organizations Category:Organizations based in Kentucky Category:Organizations established in 1985