Norwegian Equine Veterinary Association

NEVA – Norwegian Equine Veterinary Association: History, Mission & Congress

ByDr Olivia James

The Norwegian Equine Veterinary Association (NEVA) is the professional organisation representing veterinarians working with horses in Norway. Founded in 1976, NEVA supports its members through continuing education, professional networking, and advocacy for both equine health and veterinary practice.

Although a relatively small association by membership size, NEVA plays an important role in ensuring Norwegian equine veterinarians remain connected to international developments in equine medicine through active participation in European and global networks.

A Brief History

NEVA was created in 1976 by a group of practitioners who recognised the need for a dedicated platform for horse vets in Norway. Its founders aimed to provide continuing education, promote equine welfare, and ensure that the veterinary profession had a strong voice in a country where equestrian sport and horse ownership are deeply rooted in tradition.

Over the decades, NEVA has continued to evolve, maintaining close ties with Norwegian universities and veterinary institutions, while also expanding its involvement in international collaborations.

Mission & Objectives

The mission of NEVA is to advance equine veterinary medicine in Norway while representing the professional interests of its members. Its objectives include:

  • Continuing education: Organising national CPD events, workshops, and scientific lectures.
  • Professional representation: Advocating for equine veterinarians in Norway at policy and industry levels.
  • Knowledge sharing: Providing opportunities for members to exchange clinical experience and research.
  • Equine welfare: Promoting responsible, evidence-based veterinary practice.
  • International collaboration: Ensuring Norwegian equine vets are linked to FEEVA, WEVA, and BEVA.

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.

Annual Meeting & Events

The NEVA Annual Meeting is the highlight of its calendar, bringing together Norwegian equine vets for education and networking.

  • When: Held annually, usually in autumn.
  • What to expect: Scientific presentations, clinical case discussions, wet labs, and networking opportunities.
  • Who attends: Norwegian practitioners, invited international speakers, and industry partners.

While smaller in scale compared to BEVA Congress or Bain Fallon, the NEVA meeting provides a vital opportunity for Norwegian practitioners to access CPD close to home.

Local equine practicitioners are also invited to the Nordic Equine Veterinary Congress each year. The inaugural congress for equine practitioners in the Nordic region was a resounding success.

Since then, gatherings in Stockholm, Bergen, and even a virtual edition hosted from Finland during Covid have all drawn strong participation. The fifth edition of the event was held in Selfoss, Iceland.

The other live event this this regiopn of the world is the Nordic Congress on Equine Dentistry (NCED). This takes place annually and in 2026, it will take place in Malmö, Sweden, from 29–31 January 2026. The 2026 theme is:

“Biology, Dentistry and Fairy Tales – The Intersection of Science, Stories, and Smiles.”

This thought-provoking theme invites delegates to reflect on the boundaries between evidence-based medicine and long-held beliefs. Which aetiologies, treatments, and interpretations are grounded in solid science – and which might, in fact, be nothing more than fairy tales?

Over three unforgettable days in Malmö, participants can expect:

  • Cutting-edge education: Inspiring lectures and interactive workshops led by leading international experts.
  • Networking opportunities: Connect and exchange ideas with equine veterinary colleagues from across the globe.
  • Exhibition hall: Explore the latest innovations in equine dentistry from sponsors and exhibitors.
  • Social highlights: Evening receptions on Thursday and Friday, plus the renowned Friday Gala Dinner, complete with live music and dancing.

The NCED Congress has become a cornerstone event in the Nordic region, offering equine vets a rare mix of rigorous science, practical training, and community spirit.

International Links

NEVA is an active member of the Federation of European Equine Veterinary Associations (FEEVA), which connects it to a network of 23 national associations across Europe.

Through FEEVA, NEVA collaborates with associations such as BEVA (UK), AVEF (France), BEPS (Belgium), and GPM/GEVA (Germany).

Connection to BEVA: Members of NEVA 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 NEVA Matters to Equine Vets

For Norwegian veterinarians, NEVA provides:

  • A professional home tailored to equine practice.
  • Access to national CPD opportunities and European networks.
  • Representation on welfare and veterinary policy issues.
  • A platform to connect with colleagues across Scandinavia and Europe.

For international colleagues, NEVA offers insight into equine practice in Scandinavia and provides opportunities to connect with veterinarians in a country with a strong equestrian culture.

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?
The Norwegian Equine Veterinary Association (NEVA) is Norway’s national body for equine vets.

When was NEVA founded?
NEVA was founded in 1976 to support veterinarians working in equine practice.

What does NEVA do?
The association provides CPD, professional networking, and representation for Norwegian horse vets.

Does NEVA hold an annual meeting?
Yes, NEVA organises an annual scientific meeting with lectures, case discussions, and workshops.

Is NEVA connected internationally?
Yes, it is a member of FEEVA and offers access to BEVA Affiliate Membership.

Dr. Olivia James is the founder and CEO of The Equine Practice Company, that specializes in delivering accessible, practical education for equine veterinarians worldwide.

With a career spanning from mixed practice in rural Australia to equine dentistry, Dr. James combines firsthand experience with a passion for advancing veterinary care. Inspired by a volunteer mission in Indonesia, she created a platform to meet the global need for real-world, on-demand learning.

Dedicated to empowering equine vets, Dr. James provides tools and knowledge to improve patient outcomes and support veterinarians, all driven by her enduring love for the horse and the profession.

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