Glasgow University Veterinary Medical Association (GUVMA) Welfare Symposium

In November 2001 the BVA:AWF funded an animal welfare symposium arranged by GUVMA. The symposium venue was the Animal Health and Technology Conference Hall, part of the Weiper’s Equine Centre at University of Glasgow Veterinary School.

The aims of the symposium were to educate and promote debate on animal welfare within the veterinary profession, and to encourage vets and students alike to make informed and realistic decisions on the many aspects of animal welfare and ethics.

Topics of discussion in the symposium included:

• The effects of public opinion on animal welfare
• The Waltham approach to pet care and nutrition
• Animal welfare Issues during the 2001 FMD outbreak
• Organic farming
• Abnormal behaviour in zoo animals

Mr David Henderson BVMS MRCVS, (a BVA:AWF Trustee) attended the conference representing the Farm Animal Welfare Council (FAWC). He gave an excellent presentation on the many welfare implications of the 2001 FMD outbreak. Mr Henderson described the problems incurred during the worst of the epidemic, and the difficulties faced by all involved.

Trustees were encouraged by the number of students attending the symposium, and all agreed that it was an extremely worthwhile event.

For more information on the symposium, please contact Marion White, GUVMA Welfare Representative at 9804112w@student.gla.ac.uk

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