EBVS History

The foundations of European veterinary specialisation

1. 1989 Harrogate, UK

   A shared ambition

   At the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) Congress, 26 veterinarians gathered to discuss and propose a framework for European veterinary specialisation.

2. 1990

   EAVS is established

   The European Association of Veterinary Specialisation (EAVS) was established as part of an initiative to create university–enterprise training partnerships.

   EAVS and ESAVS are distinct organisations. The European School of Advanced Veterinary Studies (ESAVS) primarily provides continuing education for veterinarians rather than specialist training.

3. 1990–1991 February 1990
   to March 1991

   Defining a European framework

   The draft document Veterinary Specialisation in Europe proposed a structure for specialist training and its formal recognition across Europe.

   It was discussed extensively by the Federation of Veterinarians in Europe (FVE) and the Advisory Committee on Vocational Training (ACVT).

4. In parallel During the framework discussions

   A shared approach across Europe

   A liaison committee brought together representatives from five European veterinary organisations to develop a harmonised approach to specialisation across national boundaries.

   • ESVD European Society of Veterinary Dermatology
   • ESVIM European Society of Veterinary Internal Medicine
   • ESVO European Society of Veterinary Ophthalmology
   • EAVDI European Association of Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging
   • ECVS European College of Veterinary Surgery

   Specialist qualification requires substantial additional education and training. Working with the ACVT, the committee distinguished this qualification from an interest or expertise in a subject.

5. 1992–1993

   From recommendations to an interim Board

   February 1992 · Recommendations adopted

   The ACVT unanimously adopted the liaison committee’s Report and Recommendations for the Transnational Organisation of Veterinary Specialisation.

   May 1993 · Luxembourg symposium

   A symposium on Veterinary Specialisation in Europe was held with assistance from EAVS. During the meeting, the liaison committee became the interim Board of Veterinary Specialisation (BVS).

   The interim Board was tasked with coordinating veterinary specialisation across Europe and promoting the establishment of new specialist Colleges.