The Cabildo of Lanzarote will host the first Congress of Veterinarians and Veterinary Auxiliaries (ATVs) on the island. This groundbreaking event will take place on 19 and 20 September at the institution’s auditorium, bringing together professionals from the sector.

The island’s president, Oswaldo Betancort, alongside the Councillor for Animal Welfare, Armando Santana, presented this innovative initiative, which aligns with the government’s strong commitment to animal care. The current administration has been closely collaborating with local councils and has made significant progress in developing outreach programmes, collaborating with animal shelters, and conducting campaigns for the control of feline colonies, among other initiatives during its current term.

Focus of the Congress

The first Congress of Veterinarians and Veterinary Auxiliaries (ATVs) aims to promote continuous training, the exchange of experiences, and the strengthening of the veterinary sector. It will cover clinical aspects and animal management, as well as technological innovations and the management of feline colonies.

Oswaldo Betancort expressed his delight at this institutional initiative that deepens the focus on animal care, this time highlighting training and the sharing of experiences in animal care. “This Congress is a historic event that meets an existing demand. With over ten renowned speakers, it will once again position us as a regional reference, this time for the veterinary sector in the Canary Islands, providing a space for training and debate that benefits animal welfare and the continuous improvement of professional practice.”

Armando Santana added, “This congress is a historic opportunity for Lanzarote. We want veterinarians and auxiliaries on the island to have a space for meeting, learning, and reflection that enables them to continue growing professionally. Animal welfare is only possible with trained, committed professionals who have access to resources. The Cabildo will continue to support initiatives like this one, which not only strengthen the sector but also lead to better care and treatment of our animals.”

Featured Specialists

According to information provided in a press release, the training offered by the Cabildo is in collaboration with the College of Veterinarians of Las Palmas and industry companies, and it is also open to anyone interested in animal care.

The programme includes presentations by prominent specialists who will share their knowledge in areas such as orthopaedics, nutrition, ophthalmology, dermatology, feline pain, and surgical care. Current topics will also be addressed, including the use of artificial intelligence in veterinary management and the ethical management of feline colonies.

Programme Schedule

On Friday, 19 September: the official opening by the Councillor for Animal Welfare will be followed by lectures on the Presa Canario breed, orthopaedic pathologies, nutrition in small animals, the use of artificial intelligence in veterinary management, and the detection of feline pain.

On Saturday, 20 September: sessions will cover respiratory issues, surgical care, atopic dermatitis, ophthalmology, feline colony management, and radiology. The day will conclude with a round table discussion and the official closing of the event.