Breakfast with the Presidents
Dr Jolle Kirpensteijn and Mark Johnston
WSAVA President Dr Jolle Kirpensteijn and in-coming BSAVA President Mark Johnston held an informal press meeting this morning to discuss the ways in which their associations can work together and help the further development of the veterinary profession.
Dr Kirpensteijn praised the veterinary profession's "central role in animal welfare" but he raised the point that vets are often "shy" when it comes to vocalising their importance beyond the level of general practice.
WSAVA and BSAVA have a very successful relationship, and presidents of both associations agreed that education is vital, not only in terms of constantly improving veterinary medicine but also on a grander global scale. For example, the WSAVA One Health Committee, which is headed up by the BSAVA junior vice-president Michael Day, was highlighted as a means by which the veterinary profession can help the medical industry worldwide and it was stressed that the role of veterinary associations in education is crucial.
Clinical research is an important part of both associations' role, and the WSAVA is keen to translate research into a global scale. One of their current goals is to eradicate rabies and Dr Kirpensteijn reiterated that cooperation and communication between the veterinary profession and beyond will be vital in its achievement.
The bond between the WSAVA and BSAVA is strong, not least proven by the opening ceremony speech given by Brian Singleton, one of BSAVA's first presidents and a founding member of WSAVA, and today's meeting with Dr Jolle Kirpensteijn and Mark Johnston is a clear indication of its long continuation.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
