SIG in the Spotlight: Australian Veterinarians for Animal Welfare & Ethics

In this edition of SIG in the Spotlight, we shine a light on the Australian Veterinarians for Animal Welfare & Ethics (AVAWE). Dr Suffien Suharju, who is now entering his second year as the SIG’s President, brings over a decade of experience in animal health and welfare, hospital management, and contributions to a range of community programs and animal welfare initiatives. 
 

The AVAWE has fostered a welcoming and inclusive environment, valuing all member’s ideas and perspectives.  

Tell us a bit about the Australian Veterinarians for Animal Welfare and Ethics Group (AVAWE).

The AVAWE Group really is a collection of vets who are interested in - and passionate about - improving standards and discussions involving animal welfare, animal ethics and professional ethics.

The SIG started as a group of veterinarians who wanted to connect with other veterinarians involved with animal ethics committees. Today, it has expanded to include veterinarians who are involved with government policy, regulatory and compliance work, research, academia and clinical practice. This growth in the breadth and depth of our membership is consistent with the role veterinarians play in looking after animals in the community.

We have a large group of veterinarians such as general practitioners who are looking for opportunities to contribute to changes in improving animal welfare at the policy level, discuss ethical dilemmas, and have a general interest in animal welfare sciences.

And that’s what our group is about: providing a platform for veterinarians to discuss and be able to put their voice forward on all things related to animal welfare, animal ethics and professional ethics. AVAWE has been involved with state and federal government submissions and matters reported in the press regarding animal welfare compromise.

Our members live in metropolitan, rural, and regional areas, and represent the political spectrum. Our group always prioritises creating a safe and respectful space to discuss and share perspectives.

We have a shared vision that veterinarians should have a say on all issues involving animals.

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How does the SIG help veterinarians in their day-to-day practice?
We are known for publishing ethical conundrums in publications, which has helped generate conversations among our members. As a vet who practices in regional Victoria, these are helpful,as you often feel isolated when you are faced with an ethical dilemma. Many veterinarians are familiar with convenience euthanasia, for example. We look forward to more members putting forward their own ethical conundrums.

What resources and educational opportunities are available to members?
In addition to our publication, we have working groups where members can volunteer on matters that are of interest. It’s at these working groups that you start learning how to formulate evidence-based responses, apply critical thinking outside of the consult room, and gain insights from field subject matter experts.

We also produce two webinars each year, with a focus on current issues and/or innovations in animal welfare. One example from last year is the use of AI in ongoing welfare assessments on farms.



What would you say to someone who was considering joining?
We are an open group, and we accept everyone; regardless of geographic location, your understanding of animal welfare, animal laws, animal ethics and professional ethics, or your personal views.

I think the vast majority of us who work with animals, understand that we do not all think alike. In fact, we encourage robust discussions, and this is helped when we have very different perspectives.

The most important thing we can achieve as a group, is to ensure the veterinary perspective is at the forefront, evidence-based, and included in all public animal matters.

Over the last year, we had a number of members with diverse expertise volunteer in our working groups. The output of the work was significant, and they helped shape the AVA voice. The volunteers reported a great experience, where they felt engaged, comfortable, and delighted to see the results of their contributions.

I encourage all members to consider joining this amazing SIG. We support a wide range of voices –only together can we put our best foot forward to represent all vets in Australia.

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What is a goal of the SIG in the next couple of years?
We encourage veterinarians from all walks: from early career vets who would like exposure to the myriad of veterinary opportunities available, to experienced vets who have always wanted to contribute to advocacy, policy and submissions.

We plan to continue increasing transparency in our discussions with general members, by inviting volunteers for working groups and setting up opportunities to discuss matters in depth.

There are many more opportunities available that we have not covered yet! I welcome those interested to chat about your ideas and explore how we can help improve the lives of all animals and veterinarians, together.