Event will explore how to uphold animal welfare in the face of a pandemic.
The Animal Welfare Foundation's (AWF) popular Discussion Forum is returning for 2021, organisers have announced, with animal welfare in a changing world set to be at the heart of all discussions.
Taking place virtually on Wednesday 15 September, the programme includes four main sessions, including two debates and a discussion. The sessions include:
Innovation and overtreatment – Does the desire to innovate compromise companion animal welfare?
Farming, sustainability and welfare – What are the interactions between farming methods, production systems, sustainability and welfare?
Covid-19: Upholding animal welfare in the face of a pandemic
What are we doing to improve welfare? AWF-funded research projects.
The panellists, among many others, include Eddie Clutton, clinical director of the Wellcome Trust Critical Care Laboratory for Large Animals, Karen Humm, associate professor in transfusion medicine and emergency critical care at the RVC, and Daniella Dos Santos, small animal vet and BVA senior vice president.
Delegates will be encouraged to get involved in all of the debates and Q&A sessions. There will also be break out rooms where participants can take part in other discussions, soon to be announced.
AWF chair Chris Laurence said: “At a time of competing priorities; with a Global Climate Change emergency, the rise of technology and innovation, and an ever-challenging, post-pandemic landscape, it has never been more important that animal welfare is considered in these discussions. There will an array of thought-provoking content for all delegates, whether they are an animal welfare expert, vet, vet nurse or student.”
BVA president James Russell added: “As someone with a background in large animal and farm work, the farming debate is one that I am particularly excited about. At a time when sustainable farming is more important than ever, and technological advancements on-farm are coming on in leaps and bounds in the UK, vets must look at how high standards of animal health and welfare can be maintained.
“I am really looking forward to hearing which side audience members come down on before and after taking part in the debate sessions. There will be something for anyone involved in animal welfare and the veterinary profession, and I urge everyone to book their spaces before they disappear!”
Tickets for the AWF virtual Discussion Forum are on sale now at animalwelfarefoundation.org.uk
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
