The WSAVA has announced that its Animal Wellness and Welfare Committee (AWWC) has launched two new online training modules designed to provide veterinary surgeons with a solid grounding in contemporary animal welfare issues.

Developed as a resource for everyday clinical use, they are intended to enable practising veterinary surgeons around the world to expand their role as advocates for animals.

The two one-hour modules are based on materials developed by WSAVA partner, World Animal Protection in its Advanced Concepts in Animal Welfare educational resource.

The first module addresses contemporary animal welfare science and ethics and the understandings and definitions of animal welfare.

The second has a more clinical focus, covering aspects of animal welfare in practice, including behavioral and end of life issues. Both modules are now available for free download at http://tinyurl.com/hfs6s3s.

Dr Shane Ryan, co-chair of the AWWC, said: "It is vital that veterinarians possess an in-depth and solid understanding of contemporary animal welfare concepts in order to address both questions from the public and misinformation by non-veterinary groups on animal welfare issues.  Veterinarians are the champions of animal welfare and we hope that our new online training modules will support them in this role, offering them the knowledge they need in a concise and easily accessible format."

He added: "We acknowledge the vital support of World Animal Protection and AWWC sponsor WALTHAM, as well as the WSAVA’s Friends of Animal Welfare donors for their generous support of this important work."

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.