The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) has established a new Foundation focused on improving animal care through developments science and education. WSAVA  represents over 75,000 veterinarians worldwide and aims to improve the exchange of information between individuals and organisations within the veterinary community.

The WSAVA Foundation, a not-for-profit body, held its first board meeting in February and is now identifying a range of potential projects, which are likely to include:
- Initiatives to educate veterinarians and the public globally about disease prevention and improvement of health in companion animals 
- Creating standardization projects in key areas of companion animal health and welfare
- Supporting the development of innovative clinical approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of clinical diseases in companion animals

It is also identifying sources of funding, grants and partnerships with the veterinary pharmaceutical and pet nutrition sectors and other potential donors.

Commenting on its establishment, Dr Larry Dee, WSAVA Foundation President, former WSAVA President and co-owner of a large companion animal practice in Florida, said:  “The creation of this new Foundation is one of the WSAVA’s most exciting initiatives to date.  We have an ambitious vision to improve global companion animal care through science and education.

With its establishment, global veterinary medicine now has a wonderful opportunity to utilize the networking resources and global ‘connectivity’ of WSAVA to deliver on its goal of improving companion care everywhere.  We will be announcing details of our first initiatives shortly.”