FEEVA

On 27th October 2022, the FEEVA General Assembly took place at the Ergife Palace Hotel in Rome, Italy, with 31 participants representing 16 European Equine Veterinary Associations, as well as UEVP, FEI, and FVE. President Julius Peters welcomed all delegates and special guests, including Huw Griffiths (UK), Karen E. Wolfsdorf (US), and representatives from FEI, UEVP, and FVE. Apologies were noted from Belgium, Norway, Romania, and Switzerland. Rodolfo Gialetti, SIVE President, welcomed participants and invited them to the SIVE Congress and the Internal Medicine Congress.
The meeting included updates from FEEVA Working Groups. Donald Collins presented the Disease Surveillance WG, focusing on education campaigns and proactive disease monitoring. Andrea Brignolo gave an update on the Medicines WG, covering EU veterinary regulations and the use of phenylbutazone. Anette Graf presented the Horse Welfare WG, highlighting ongoing projects on animal behaviour and training, the rewilding project, and EU monitoring activities.
Partner organizations shared updates as well: Mette Uldahl (FVE) discussed EU veterinary regulations, animal welfare, and the FVE Diversity, Equity & Inclusiveness Campaign. Caterina Termine (FEI) presented FEI initiatives on equine welfare, infectious disease control, and education, including upcoming biosecurity training. Giovanbattista Guadagnini (UEVP) highlighted FEEVA’s contribution as a member.
Key presentations included Karen Wolfsdorf on “Changes in Equine Reproduction,” discussing assisted reproduction, fertility management, and mare welfare, and Huw Griffiths on “Recruitment and Retention in the Equine Veterinary Profession,” highlighting workload, salaries, CPD, student engagement, and strategies for work-life balance.
FEEVA activities, including the Quality of Equine Education analysis and charitable support for horses in Ukraine, were presented, followed by financial updates from Treasurer Andrea Brignolo, showing a positive balance for 2021.
The Assembly concluded with thanks to all speakers, delegates, and guests, and special acknowledgement to SIVE for hosting an engaging congress with excellent networking opportunities. Julius Peters closed the meeting, wishing everyone a pleasant stay in Rome.