Join us to explore how humans have cared for animals in different times and places!
Every two years, members of the World Association for the History of Veterinary Medicine meet for a Congress at which we present our research, exchange ideas, and socialize. In September 2010, we met in beautiful and historic Antalya, Turkey, and discussed topics such as the history of veterinary education in Turkey, Europe, North America, and Latin America; the movement of diseases such as anthrax and rinderpest in animal populations around the world; how and why animal protection societies became established; and many other topics that linked the history of veterinary medicine and animal disease in the Middle East with that of other parts of the world. We enjoyed very warm hospitality from our hosts, the Turkish Association for the History of Veterinary Medicine and Professional Ethics. Discussions continued over raki and beyaz peynir, and even while swimming in the Mediterranean Sea! Tours to nearby archaeological sites and a gala banquet capped off a delightful experience that none of us will ever forget.

Click here for a photo gallery from the 39th WAHVM Congress, Antalya

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In 2012, our Association looks forward to its 40th Congress, to be held in Utrecht, The Netherlands.

Click on this photo of Utrecht University to go to the 40th Congress website:

Between Congresses, we continue our discussions through this website, meetings in our own countries, professional conferences, and the journal, Historia Medicinae Veterinariae. The result is a vibrant field of research that includes students, veterinarians, historians, and interested people from all walks of life.

We have 1100 members from 43 nations, with our activities coordinated by the Officers and Board (which represent 14 of those nations) and aided by a Liaison Committee. In photo: Past-President Gerhard Forstenpointner (Austria), co-President Susan Jones (USA), co-President Peter Koolmees (Netherlands).