FEEVA

On October 24th, FEEVA held its General Assembly in the beautiful city of Lisbon, Portugal, with 38 delegates, guests, and speakers in attendance. President Heidi Kellokoski-Kiiskinen opened the meeting by thanking the Portuguese Equine Veterinary Association (APMVE) and the Portuguese Equestrian Society for hosting the event, and warmly welcomed distinguished guests, including representatives from AAEP, FEI, UEVP, FVE, EHN, IVSA, as well as a video message from MEP Hilde Vautmans. Apologies and proxies were noted, and the quorum was confirmed with 18 country representatives present.
The Assembly included updates from partner organizations and reports from FEEVA working groups. Key topics covered included equine health surveillance, prepurchase examinations, medicines, welfare, collaboration with farriers, and the importance of maintaining a Social Licence to Operate. Financial reports for 2023, a rolling statement, and the 2025 budget were presented and approved. Delegates also unanimously adopted two position papers on Equine Dentistry and Behaviour and Training of Animals, reinforcing FEEVA’s commitment to high standards in equine care.
An updated version of FEEVA’s statutes was approved, reflecting the federation’s evolving structure and clarifying procedures for countries with multiple member associations. The board elections saw Joe Collins (Ireland) elected as FEEVA President, Michael Köhler (Germany) joining as a new board member, and Andrea Brignolo continuing as Treasurer. Outgoing President Heidi Kellokoski-Kiiskinen was warmly thanked for her exceptional contributions to FEEVA over the past five years.
The Assembly concluded with announcements about the next General Assembly, which will take place in Lyon, France, on October 22nd, 2025, in conjunction with the AVEF annual congress. The meeting was closed with thanks to all participants and best wishes for the continued advancement of equine veterinary care across Europe.