HAEP – Hungarian Association of Equine Practitioners: History, Mission & Congress
The Hungarian Association of Equine Practitioners (HAEP) is the national professional body for veterinarians specialising in horse medicine in Hungary. Founded in 1988, HAEP provides a platform for continuing education, scientific exchange, and professional advocacy.
Over the past three decades, HAEP has built a strong reputation for promoting excellence in equine veterinary care, representing Hungary within the European veterinary community, and hosting one of Central Europe’s most respected equine congresses.
A Brief History
HAEP was created in 1988, during a time of significant transformation in Hungarian veterinary medicine. Its founders recognised the need for a dedicated organisation focused exclusively on equine practice, particularly as equestrian sports and horse ownership were growing rapidly in Hungary.
Since then, HAEP has steadily grown, developing both national training initiatives and international partnerships. Today, it is a cornerstone of equine veterinary life in Hungary, linking local practitioners with the wider European community.
Mission & Objectives
HAEP’s mission is to strengthen equine veterinary medicine in Hungary and to represent practitioners both nationally and abroad. Its objectives include:
- Continuing education: Providing CPD courses, seminars, and practical workshops.
- Scientific collaboration: Promoting knowledge exchange between clinicians, academics, and researchers.
- Professional advocacy: Acting as a unified voice for Hungarian equine vets in policy discussions.
- Equine welfare: Encouraging responsible, evidence-based standards of care for horses.
- International integration: Ensuring Hungarian practitioners are represented in European and global forums.
Member Services & Benefits
HAEP members receive:
- Discounted registration for the annual HAEP Congress.
- Opportunities to attend seminars and wet labs across Hungary.
- Access to international experts and training through partnerships.
- Representation in FEEVA and other professional networks.
- Networking with Hungarian and European equine practitioners like Estonia.
HAEP Congress
The highlight of HAEP’s activities is the annual HAEP Congress, which has become one of the most respected equine veterinary gatherings in Central Europe.
- When: Annually in late autumn (typically October or November)
- Where: Rotating Hungarian cities, often Budapest or Szilvásvárad
- What to expect: Scientific lectures, hands-on workshops, clinical case sessions, and a trade exhibition.
The congress regularly attracts international speakers, giving Hungarian practitioners direct access to the latest global advances in equine medicine.
International Links
HAEP is a committed member of the Federation of European Equine Veterinary Associations (FEEVA), which allows Hungarian veterinarians to influence European policies and clinical standards.
Through FEEVA, HAEP connects with associations like BEVA (UK), AVEF (France), BEPS (Belgium), and GPM/GEVA (Germany).
Connection to BEVA: Members of HAEP may also be eligible for BEVA Affiliate Membership, providing discounted access to BEVA’s journals, CPD library, webinars, and BEVA Congress rates.
Learn about BEVA Affiliate Membership →
Why HAEP Matters to Equine Vets
For Hungarian equine veterinarians, HAEP provides:
- A dedicated professional association for equine practice.
- Access to the latest research and clinical training.
- A strong collective voice within Hungary’s veterinary profession.
- Opportunities to engage with the international equine veterinary community.
For international colleagues, HAEP offers an entry point into Central Europe’s veterinary networks and the chance to attend a respected congress that combines local expertise with international perspectives.
Join Our Community
Our subscriber base already includes Hungarian equine veterinarians, alongside colleagues from Germany, France, and across Europe. By joining this network, you’ll gain access to new ideas, professional support, and opportunities to connect with a worldwide community of equine practitioners. Together with HAEP, you’ll also benefit from continuing education and collaborative networks dedicated to advancing equine medicine.
FAQ’s For The Hungarian Association of Equine Practitioners
What is HAEP?
The Hungarian Association of Equine Practitioners (HAEP) is Hungary’s national equine veterinary society.
When was HAEP founded?
HAEP was established in 1988 to support veterinarians working in equine practice.
What does HAEP do?
They provide CPD, scientific collaboration, professional advocacy, and welfare promotion for equine vets.
What is the HAEP Congress?
The HAEP Congress is an annual event featuring lectures, workshops, and international speakers.
Is HAEP connected internationally?
Yes, they are a member of FEEVA and linked to BEVA Affiliate Membership.
