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AWF Discussion Forum returns for 2025
The AWF was founded by BVA to fund research and educational initiatives.
This year’s debate topics have now been revealed.

The Animal Welfare Foundation (AWF) Discussion Forum is to return for 2025, with this year’s issues for debate already revealed.

The event will be taking place on Monday, 19 May 2024 at the Cavendish Conference Centre in London, providing CPD sessions with a focus on animal welfare. Speakers from academic, business and government backgrounds will each offer their own perspective on issues affecting animal welfare.

Among the sessions is ‘Translating behaviour: How can veterinary professionals harness animal behaviour as a key welfare indicator with greater confidence?’.  This discussion will explore the science and significance of animal actions and how this reflects their mental states. It will also explore how these indicators can be proven with evidence.

‘Breeding for better welfare’ is set to address concerns about extreme breeding practices. Speakers will discuss the impact of research, policy and attitudes shape pathways for healthier and happier animals.

Providing a more business oriented perspective, ‘The economics of welfare’ will investigate the relationship between farm animal welfare and profitable business models. The session will consider how stakeholders can drive meaningful progress.

Alongside the scheduled content, attendees are also invited participate in ‘Lightning Talks’. Attendees will be able to go on stage to discuss the issues that they are passionate about.

The forum will also be an opportunity to hear the latest updates from AWF-funded research. The charity was founded by the British Veterinary Association (BVA) to fund research, educational initiatives and debates.

Julian Kupfer, chair of the AWF, said: “Year on year, the Discussion Forum grows in influence and impact, becoming a must-attend event for those passionate about driving evidence-based, positive change for animal welfare.

“In 2025, we’re confronting some of the most urgent and complex issues in our field, from extreme breeding to the economics of welfare. This is more than a conference – it’s a catalyst for change.”

Tickets for the event, including lunch and the evening reception, can be bought here.

Image © AWF

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Strangles survey seeks views of horse owners

News Story 1
 With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.

The survey, which has been designed by Dechra, aims to raise awareness of Strangles and promote best practices to prevent its transmission. It includes questions about horse owners' experiences of strangles, together with preventative measures and vaccination.

Respondents to the survey will be entered into a prize draw to win two VIP tickets to Your Horse Live 2025. To access the survey, click here 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Vivienne Mackinnon elected BVA Scottish Branch President

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has elected Vivienne Mackinnon as its new BVA Scottish Branch president.

Dr Mackinnon has over 30 years of experience in veterinary care, encompassing both small animal and mixed practice. She has worked in practices in Scotland, England, New Zealand and Australia, before joining APHA to work in frontline disease control.

In her speech, Dr Mackinnon reflected on the changes in Scotland's veterinary industry and highlighted her commitment to veterinary education.

Dr Mackinnon said: "I look forward to working with colleagues across the veterinary professions to improve animal health and welfare in the country and support veterinary workplaces."