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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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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
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Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.