AVA Emergency Animal Disease Vet Summit wrap-up
02 Dec 2022
This week, the AVA held its first ever Emergency Animal Disease Vet Summit. Emergency Animal Diseases (EADs) have been a key issue for our profession, and the goal of the summit was to bring together veterinary professionals to discuss how we can work together in this rapidly moving field.
The summit, held in Canberra, was a huge success, having sold out days before the event began. Veterinarians from varied fields came to listen to, and ask questions of, speakers prominent in the EAD space.
Image (L-R): David Beggs, Meredith Flash, Cristy Secombe, Michael Laurence
EAD preparedness was a popular topic of discussion, with Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer Mark Schipp, Stephanie Bullen from Dairy Australia and AVA President Bronwyn Orr showcasing the work that has been happening behind the scenes.
Speakers such as Paul Cusack and Dr Michael Laurence at Meat & Livestock Australia discussed how individuals and private-sector veterinarians can contribute. Wellness expert Cathy Warburton also spoke about the impacts of EAD responses on individuals, and how to stay mentally healthy during a crisis.
The summit also featured important updates on the key diseases such as lumpy skin disease, Japanese encephalitis virus and canine monocytic ehrlichiosis.
Along with the talks, the summit featured an exhibition – a chance for delegates to meet and talk to key industry players. It also provided delegates an opportunity to catch up with colleagues.
The EAD Vet Summit was spearheaded by the Australian Cattle Veterinarians. They will be holding their next conference 28-31 March 2023 in Darwin, with more details to follow. 2023 will be a big year for the ACV, with the SIG celebrating its 50th year.
The AVA would like to thank the EAD Vet Summit platinum sponsors, Apiam Animal Health and Dairy Australia; bronze sponsors WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and NSW Department of Primary Industries; and corporate supporter Elanco. We’d also like to thank all the exhibitors, speakers and volunteers who helped to make the EAD Vet Summit a success.