Forum aims to tackle animal welfare issues

A new ‘On the pulse’ session will be introduced at this year’s Animal Welfare Foundation (AWF) Discussion Forum, building on the annual event’s usual discussion and debate on key areas of animal welfare. AWF’s Discussion Forum, held at One George Street, London, on Monday 5 June, attracts delegates from a wide range of fields and gives them the chance to discuss and share knowledge on challenging welfare issues. The Discussion Forum’s four sessions have been designed to focus on the key issues impacting animal welfare such as if modern life is compatible with pet ownership; who’d like to be a 21st century cat; and the ethics of complex treatments for horses. The new, short ‘On the pulse’ session will focus on a topical issue that will be announced closer to the event. Chris Laurence, AWF Chair of Trustees, said: “We’re proud of AWF’s commitment to finding practical solutions to the welfare problems of all animals. Education and discussion are key to our work and we invite all those interested in improving animal welfare to join the debate this year. "With its emphasis on audience participation I’m sure that delegates will leave this unique event inspired to do what they can to bring about positive change.” Gudrun Ravetz, President of the British Veterinary Association and session chair, said: “Year on year, this is an exceptional conference that examines important issues for animal welfare. BVA’s members have identified promoting animal welfare as the profession’s top priority, so I would encourage as many people as possible to attend, hear from the experts and contribute to these influential discussions.” The Discussion Forum, kindly sponsored by Vets4Pets, will provide the opportunity to hear how AWF turns donations into action for animal welfare, with presentations from two of the projects funded by the organisation. Dr. Huw Stacey, Vets4Pets Clinical Services Director said: "At Vets4Pets we are passionate about preventative healthcare and are proud advocates of responsible pet ownership. We are delighted to be sponsoring the Animal Welfare Foundation’s Discussion Forum and fully support its aim to confront the most pressing animal welfare issues and inspire change." Following the Discussion Forum, AWF and British Veterinary Association (BVA) will jointly host a reception at the House of Commons offering delegates the opportunity to continue discussing the day’s issues with parliamentarians and policymakers. For a full programme and to buy tickets for the AWF Discussion Forum and House of Commons reception, visit www.bva-awf.org.uk/2017-discussion-forum-monday-june-5th-2017