Two receive President's Award
Image: Ray Butcher
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) has announced the winners of its annual awards, recognising ground-breaking achievements in companion animal care. The awards were presented at the WSAVA FASAVA World Congress in Auckland, New Zealand.
Unusually, the President's Award was given to two WSAVA members this year, who were both judged to have made an outstanding contribution to the association. Honoured with the award were former WSAVA president Professor Peter Ihrke, and Dr Ray Butcher, who amongst his other work has been instrumental in efforts to control dog populations humanely.
Speaking of the two winners, WSAVA president Jolle Kirpensteijn said: "Both are living embodiments of what we stand for - but they are also great friends and colleagues…we congratulate them and hope they will inspire others."
Professor David Twedt was presented with the International Award for Scientific Achievement, for his work in advancing the profession's knowledge of companion animal disorders. Director of the Veterinary Endoscopy Teaching Center, Professor Twedt is an expert in gastroenterology and hepatic diseases in small animals.
This year's Hill's Excellence in Veterinary Healthcare Award went to Professor Thierry Olivry for outstanding work in promoting companion animal healthcare, and developing the bond between family pet and veterinary surgeon. Author and co-author of more than 180 peer-reviewed articles, Olivry was recognised with the award for his use of advanced medical and surgery techniques.
Other awards presented were the Global One Health Award, which went to Professor Lonnie King, and the Hill's Pet Mobility Award, given to Professor James L Cook, for his research in the fields of osteoarthritis, tissue engineering and articular cartilage physiology.
Kirpensteijn concluded: "The achievements of this year's winners confirm the commitment of our profession to constantly push boundaries to ensure we enhance veterinary care for companion animals."
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
