SIVE - Società Italiana Veterinari per Equini: History, Mission & Congress

The Società Italiana Veterinari per Equini (SIVE) is the national association representing equine veterinarians in Italy. Founded in 1992, SIVE has grown into one of Europe’s most dynamic veterinary organisations, offering high-quality continuing education, promoting equine welfare, and fostering strong connections with the international equine veterinary community.

A Brief History

Società Italiana Veterinari per Equini was established in 1992 by a group of Italian equine practitioners who recognised the need for a dedicated organisation to represent their profession. From its inception, the society has been committed to advancing scientific knowledge and providing continuing education opportunities for veterinarians across Italy.

Over the years, SIVE has steadily expanded its activities, hosting international congresses, supporting research, and ensuring that Italian veterinarians are represented in European and global networks.

Mission & Objectives

SIVE’s mission is to promote excellence in equine veterinary medicine in Italy while providing members with a platform for collaboration and growth. Its key objectives include:

Education & CPD: Delivering courses, workshops, and scientific meetings tailored to equine practice.
Scientific exchange: Encouraging collaboration between clinicians, researchers, and academics.
Professional advocacy: Representing Italian equine vets in national and international forums.
Equine welfare: Promoting evidence-based veterinary practices that prioritise horse health.
International collaboration: Strengthening ties with organisations across Europe and beyond.

Member Services & Benefits

Members of Società Italiana Veterinari per Equini benefit from:

Discounted access to the annual SIVE Congress and other CPD events.
A strong professional network within Italy’s equine veterinary community.
Opportunities to present and publish clinical or research findings.
Updates on regulatory, clinical, and welfare issues affecting equine practice.
Representation in European initiatives through FEEVA.

SIVE Congress

The SIVE Congress is the highlight of the Italian equine veterinary calendar and is recognised as one of the most important equine veterinary meetings in Southern Europe.

When: Annually, usually in late January or early February
Where: Rotating Italian cities, often Bologna, Verona, or Rome
What to expect: Lectures by leading international experts, practical workshops, case-based discussions, and an industry exhibition.

The congress regularly attracts hundreds of participants, making it an essential event for equine practitioners seeking continuing education and networking opportunities.

International Links

SIVE plays an active role in international equine veterinary affairs:

It is a member of the Federation of European Equine Veterinary Associations (FEEVA), contributing to European-level policies and standards.
Through FEEVA, SIVE connects with peer organisations such as BEVA (UK), AVEF (France), BEPS (Belgium), and PEVA (Poland).
SIVE members often participate in WEVA (World Equine Veterinary Association) activities, ensuring Italy remains part of the global conversation on equine medicine.

Connection to BEVA: Members of SIVE may also be eligible for BEVA Affiliate Membership, which provides discounted access to BEVA’s journals, CPD library, webinars, and BEVA Congress rates.

Learn about BEVA Affiliate Membership →

Why Società Italiana Veterinari per Equini Matters to Equine Vets

For Italian veterinarians, SIVE provides:

A strong professional identity within a national equine-focused organisation.
Access to high-quality CPD and international speakers.
A voice in equine welfare and professional discussions across Europe.
Opportunities to connect with colleagues at one of Southern Europe’s largest equine congresses.

For international colleagues, SIVE represents an opportunity to engage with Italian equine practice and take part in a congress renowned for its high scientific quality and vibrant community spirit.

Join Our Community

Although English is not their first language, we already have Italian equine veterinarians among our subscribers, alongside colleagues from France, Spain, and across Europe. By joining this network, you’ll gain access to knowledge-sharing, professional collaboration, and global opportunities. Together with SIVE, you can connect with peers, build your expertise, and contribute to the advancement of equine medicine worldwide.

SIVE FAQ’S

What is Società Italiana Veterinari per Equini?
SIVE (Società Italiana Veterinari per Equini) is Italy’s national equine veterinary association.

When was SIVE founded?
SIVE was founded in 1992.

What does SIVE do?
SIVE provides CPD, advocacy, and networking for equine veterinarians in Italy.

Does SIVE hold an annual congress?
Yes, the Società Italiana Veterinari per Equini Congress is held annually and is one of Southern Europe’s leading equine veterinary meetings.

Is SIVE connected internationally?
Yes, it is a member of FEEVA and linked to BEVA Affiliate Membership.