German Equine Veterinary Association (GPM): Congress, Guidelines & Why It Matters for Equine Vets

The German Equine Veterinary Association (GPM) is Germany’s leading professional organisation for equine veterinarians and one of the most influential equine veterinary bodies in Europe.

Known in German as Gesellschaft für Pferdemedizin e.V., the GPM plays a central role in setting clinical standards, publishing guidelines, and delivering advanced continuing education for equine veterinarians in Germany and internationally.

German Equine Veterinary Association (GPM): Key Facts for Equine Veterinarians

• Official name: Gesellschaft für Pferdemedizin e.V. (GPM)
• Founded: 1991
• Members: 1,500+ equine veterinarians
• Region: Germany, Austria, Switzerland
• Key activities: Clinical guidelines, education, research support
• Flagship event: Annual GPM Congress (November)

What Is the German Equine Veterinary Association?

The German Equine Veterinary Association was established to bring research and practice together, ensuring that advances in science translate directly into improved equine health.

With its focus on promoting education, developing clinical standards, and supporting research projects, the GPM is both a professional society and a service provider for modern equine veterinarians.

Mission and Goals of the German Equine Veterinary Association

• Promote research and science in equine medicine.
• Implement scientific findings in daily veterinary practice.
• Develop guidelines and protocols such as purchase examination forms and radiographic standards.
• Represent the interests of equine veterinarians in national and international veterinary policy.
• Strengthen education through online and in-person training programs.

Services and Benefits for Members

Veterinarians who join the German Equine Veterinary Association gain access to:

• Standardized forms and digital tools (X-ray app, digital pre-purchase examination).
• Discounts on leading equine veterinary conferences and training events.
• Professional networking through regional meetings and newsletters.
• Continuing education opportunities online and in person.
• Representation at the political and professional level.

German Equine Veterinary Association Congress (GPM Congress)

The German Equine Veterinary Association Congress, held annually in November, is one of Europe’s most important equine veterinary conferences, attracting practitioners, researchers, and industry leaders from across the continent.

This congress is one of Europe’s most respected equine veterinary gatherings, combining:

• Cutting-edge lectures from global experts.
• Hands-on workshops in advanced equine medicine.
• Networking opportunities with practitioners, researchers, and industry leaders.

For Western veterinarians, attending the November congress offers a unique opportunity to benchmark clinical practice against European standards and build lasting professional connections.

Awards and Recognition

The German Equine Veterinary Association also recognizes excellence in equine medicine through the Society for Equine Medicine Prize, awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the profession.

Notable recipients include Prof. Dr. Karsten Feige, who expanded the GPM’s profile in academia and professional politics while leading the association as president.

Why International Vets Should Follow the GPM

For veterinarians outside Germany, the German Equine Veterinary Association is:

• A source of internationally recognized guidelines and standards.
• A provider of world-class education and training.
• A host of one of Europe’s most valuable annual equine veterinary congresses.

By engaging with GPM/GEVA, equine veterinarians worldwide can strengthen their practice, expand their networks, and align with some of the highest professional standards in the industry.

The GPM is frequently compared to organisations such as the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) and the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), particularly for its role in guideline development and postgraduate education.

Frequently Asked Questions About the German Equine Veterinary Association

What is the German Equine Veterinary Association (GPM)?
The German Equine Veterinary Association (GPM) is Germany’s primary professional organisation for equine veterinarians, focused on clinical standards, education, and research.

When is the GPM Congress held?
The GPM Congress takes place annually in November and is one of Europe’s most respected equine veterinary meetings.

Is the GPM relevant for non-German veterinarians?
Yes. The GPM publishes internationally recognised guidelines and attracts delegates from across Europe and beyond.

What does GPM stand for?
GPM stands for Gesellschaft für Pferdemedizin e.V., which translates to Society for Equine Medicine.

Final Thoughts

Since 1991, the German Equine Veterinary Association (GPM/GEVA) has been shaping equine veterinary medicine in Germany and beyond.

Its commitment to science, education, and international collaboration with the likes of Association of Austrian Equine Veterinarians (VÖP) and The Swedish Equine Veterinary Association (SVF) makes it an essential organization for equine veterinarians everywhere.

And for those looking to engage in person, the annual November congress offers a perfect entry point into the European equine veterinary community.

We already have a large number of subscribers who are equine veterinarians from Germany.

If you would like to connect with like-minded colleagues, share experiences, and grow your professional network, consider joining our community – it’s the perfect way to meet peers who are equally passionate about advancing equine veterinary medicine.