AVEF - Association Vétérinaire Équine Française: History, Mission & Congress

The Association Vétérinaire Équine Française (AVEF) is France’s leading professional body for equine veterinarians. Founded in 1968, AVEF brings together practitioners, academics, and specialists with the shared mission of advancing equine medicine, improving horse welfare, and supporting veterinarians through education and advocacy.

With over 600 members, AVEF has become a central hub for France’s equine veterinary community and an influential voice across Europe.

A Brief History

AVEF was established in 1968 as a dedicated society for French equine practitioners. Its creation marked a turning point in equine veterinary medicine in France, providing a forum where practitioners could exchange knowledge, standardise best practices, and engage in continuing education.

Over the decades, AVEF has expanded its activities, supporting not only clinical practice but also research, education, and policy. Today, it is recognised as one of the most active equine veterinary associations in Europe.

Mission & Objectives

AVEF’s mission reflects its dual commitment to veterinarians and the wider horse industry in France. Its objectives include:

Education & CPD: Delivering high-quality continuing education through workshops, congresses, and regional training days.
Clinical excellence: Sharing knowledge and resources to improve diagnostics, treatment, and horse welfare.
Professional representation: Acting as the voice of equine veterinarians in discussions with regulators and institutions.
Research support: Encouraging collaboration between practitioners and academics to advance equine science.
Community building: Providing a professional home where equine vets can connect, collaborate, and learn.

AVEF Member Services & Benefits

Members of AVEF benefit from:

Reduced fees for the annual AVEF Congress and regional seminars.
Access to a wide network of French equine veterinarians.
Continuing education tailored to equine practice.
Updates on regulatory, scientific, and clinical issues affecting equine vets.
Opportunities to contribute to working groups and professional committees.

AVEF Congress

The highlight of AVEF’s calendar is the Congrès de l’AVEF, held every November in rotating French cities.

When: Annually in early November
What to expect: Scientific presentations, clinical case sessions, hands-on workshops, and industry exhibitions.
Who attends: French equine vets, international speakers, and industry partners.

The AVEF Congress has become one of the largest equine veterinary meetings in Europe, providing French vets with access to global expertise and fostering collaboration with colleagues abroad.

International Links

AVEF is deeply embedded in the global equine veterinary community:

As a member of FEEVA (Federation of European Equine Veterinary Associations), AVEF collaborates on European standards and policies.
Through WEVA (World Equine Veterinary Association), AVEF connects French veterinarians to worldwide education and CPD opportunities.
AVEF has active collaboration protocols with BEVA (UK), AVEE (Spain), and APMVE (Portugal).

Connection to BEVA: If you’re already a member of AVEF, you may also be eligible for BEVA Affiliate Membership, giving discounted access to BEVA’s journals, CPD library, webinars, and BEVA Congress rates.

Learn about BEVA Affiliate Membership →

Why AVEF Matters to Equine Vets

For equine veterinarians in France, AVEF provides:

A professional identity within a strong national network.
Access to world-class CPD at the annual congress and regional seminars.
A collective voice in professional, regulatory, and welfare discussions.
Connections to international colleagues through FEEVA, WEVA, and BEVA.

For veterinarians outside France, AVEF offers an opportunity to engage with one of Europe’s most active equine veterinary associations and attend one of the continent’s most respected congresses.

Join Our Community

We already have a strong community of French equine veterinarians among our subscribers, alongside colleagues from Netherlands, Germany, and beyond. If you would like to join this network, meet like-minded professionals, and connect with the wider equine veterinary community, now is the perfect time to get involved. Together with AVEF, you’ll gain access to professional support, continuing education, and a global platform for equine veterinary excellence.

Association Vétérinaire Équine Française FAQ’S

What is AVEF?
AVEF (Association Vétérinaire Équine Française) is France’s equine veterinary association.

When was AVEF founded?
AVEF was founded in 1968 to support equine practitioners in France.

What does AVEF do?
AVEF provides CPD, advocacy, and networking for equine veterinarians in France.

Does AVEF organise a congress?
Yes, the AVEF Congress is held annually in November, with scientific lectures, workshops, and exhibitions.

Is AVEF connected internationally?
Yes, AVEF is a member of FEEVA and WEVA, and collaborates with BEVA, AVEE, and APMVE.