NEVA – Norwegian Equine Veterinary Association: History, Mission & Congress
The Norwegian Equine Veterinary Association (NEVA) is the national professional organisation representing veterinarians working with horses in Norway.
Founded in 1976, NEVA supports equine practitioners through continuing education, professional collaboration, and advocacy for high standards of equine health and welfare.
While Norway’s equine veterinary community is relatively small, NEVA plays an outsized role by connecting Norwegian practitioners to Nordic, European, and global equine veterinary networks, ensuring access to modern clinical standards and international expertise.
What is NEVA?
NEVA is Norway’s national association for equine veterinarians. It was established in 1976 to provide continuing education, professional representation, and international connectivity for veterinarians working with horses in Norway.
A Brief History of the Norwegian Equine Veterinary Association
NEVA was founded in 1976, at a time when Norway’s equestrian and breeding sectors were expanding and equine veterinary practice was becoming increasingly specialised.
From the outset, the association focused on:
- Continuing education for equine practitioners
- Promoting horse welfare in a Nordic clinical context
- Representing Norwegian veterinarians within European professional forums
Over nearly five decades, NEVA has maintained close links with veterinary universities, national institutions, and international associations, ensuring Norwegian equine practice remains aligned with evolving clinical and welfare standards.
NEVA’s Role in Nordic Equine Veterinary Practice
NEVA occupies a unique position within the Nordic region. Rather than operating in isolation, the association actively supports cross-border collaboration between equine veterinarians in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland.
This Nordic model allows practitioners to:
- Share clinical experience across similar climates and management systems
- Pool educational resources for highly specialised fields
- Access high-quality CPD without relying solely on large international congresses
Member Services & Benefits
NEVA members enjoy access to:
- Annual meetings and scientific events in Norway.
- Discounted registration at national and European congresses.
- Opportunities to collaborate with colleagues across Scandinavia and Europe.
- Updates on regulatory, welfare, and clinical issues affecting equine practice.
- Representation through FEEVA in European veterinary forums.
Education, Meetings & Nordic Congresses
NEVA Annual Meeting
NEVA hosts an annual scientific meeting, usually held in autumn, bringing together Norwegian equine veterinarians for focused continuing education.
These meetings typically include:
- Clinical lectures and case discussions
- Practical updates relevant to Scandinavian practice
- Contributions from invited Nordic and European speakers
Nordic Equine Veterinary Congress
In addition to its national meeting, NEVA actively supports participation in the Nordic Equine Veterinary Congress, a rotating event hosted across Nordic countries.
Since its launch, editions in Stockholm, Bergen, Selfoss (Iceland), and a virtual congress hosted from Finland have attracted strong regional engagement.
Nordic Congress on Equine Dentistry (NCED)
One of the most significant specialist events in the region is the Nordic Congress on Equine Dentistry (NCED).
NCED 2026 will take place in Malmö, Sweden (29–31 January 2026), under the theme:
“Biology, Dentistry and Fairy Tales – The Intersection of Science, Stories, and Smiles.”
This congress is widely recognised for combining:
- Evidence-based dentistry
- Hands-on clinical education
- International expert faculty
International Links
NEVA is an active member of the Federation of European Equine Veterinary Associations (FEEVA), ensuring Norwegian equine veterinarians are represented in European discussions on welfare, regulation, and clinical standards.
Through FEEVA, NEVA maintains professional links with peer associations including British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA), AVEF (France), BEPS (Belgium), and GPM/GEVA (Germany).
Learn about BEVA Affiliate Membership →
Be the First in Line: Worldwide Equine Event Dates & Early Bird Pricing
Why NEVA Matters to Equine Veterinarians
For veterinarians working in Norway, NEVA provides:
- A professional association tailored specifically to equine practice
- Access to CPD that reflects Nordic clinical realities
- Representation in European veterinary policy discussions
- A bridge between local practice and international standards
For international colleagues, NEVA offers insight into Scandinavian equine medicine, welfare frameworks, and collaborative Nordic education models.
Join Our Community
We already count Norwegian equine veterinarians among our top 10 subscribers (based on country), along with colleagues from Sweden, Denmark, and across Europe.
Joining this network gives you the chance to build professional connections, share expertise, and access global resources.
With NEVA’s support, you’ll also benefit from CPD, collaboration, and international opportunities that strengthen equine medicine worldwide.
Norwegian Equine Veterinary Association FAQ’S
What is NEVA?
NEVA is Norway’s national association for veterinarians working in equine practice.
When was NEVA founded?
The Norwegian Equine Veterinary Association was founded in 1976.
What does NEVA do?
NEVA provides continuing education, professional networking, and international representation for Norwegian equine veterinarians.
Does NEVA organise events?
Yes. NEVA hosts an annual scientific meeting and supports Nordic equine veterinary congresses.
Is NEVA connected internationally?
Yes, it is a member of FEEVA and offers access to BEVA Affiliate Membership.
