Is it time to stand united? British Veterinary Poultry Association (BVPA)

Abstract

BRITISH VETERINARY POULTRY ASSOCIATION (BVPA) OVER a number of recent years the BVPA and BVA have worked hard together to develop a strong, collaborative and positive relationship, and we have seen this only further cemented over recent months as we have all been faced with the unprecedented challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. As one of the smaller parts of the veterinary profession we also see the need for a distinct species-based division that can both support the professional development of our members, and provide relevant advice and expertise on the poultry sector to the BVA, other BVA divisions, vet schools, government and other stakeholders. We also welcome the positive collaboration and representation in working groups such as the welfare at slaughter working group. This has been an excellent example of progressing and developing policy on a complex subject, with the combined voices and expertise from the BVPA as a division working closely with the BVA. We also look to work collaboratively with other parts of the profession. Recent examples include with the Pig Veterinary Society-where we are running a joint two-day meeting later in 2020-and the Veterinary Public Health Association. Our experience has been that through the ongoing development of these different relationships and types of engagement within and across the