SVPM - Swiss Equine Veterinary Association: History, Mission & Congress

The Swiss Equine Veterinary Association (SVPM) is the professional organisation representing equine veterinarians in Switzerland. Established in 1996, SVPM brings together practitioners, academics, and specialists dedicated to advancing equine healthcare, supporting veterinarians, and promoting high standards of horse welfare.

Though Switzerland has a relatively small equine community compared to some European nations, SVPM has built a strong reputation for scientific quality, practical training, and international collaboration.

A Brief History

The SVPM was founded in 1996 by a group of equine practitioners who saw the need for a dedicated national body. Their aim was to provide a professional home for Swiss equine veterinarians, encourage continuing education, and ensure that Swiss horse medicine remained aligned with international best practices.

Since then, SVPM has grown into a respected organisation within the European veterinary community, maintaining close links with universities, clinics, and global associations.

Mission & Objectives

The mission of SVPM is to support the professional and scientific development of equine veterinarians in Switzerland. Its objectives include:

Education & CPD: Providing regular seminars, workshops, and scientific meetings.
Professional advocacy: Representing Swiss equine vets within national and European forums.
Equine welfare: Promoting responsible, evidence-based approaches to horse healthcare.
Networking: Building a strong community of equine veterinarians across Switzerland.
International collaboration: Strengthening connections with European and global veterinary associations.

Member Services & Benefits

Members of SVPM enjoy access to:

Educational events across Switzerland, including CPD seminars and wet labs.
Reduced registration fees for national and international congresses.
Networking opportunities with colleagues across Switzerland and abroad.
Updates on regulatory, welfare, and clinical developments in equine practice.
Representation within FEEVA (Federation of European Equine Veterinary Associations).

The Swiss Equine Veterinary Association Congress & Events

The highlight of SVPM’s calendar is its annual scientific meeting, which gathers Swiss veterinarians for education and networking.

When: Annually, usually in autumn.
Where: Rotating venues in Switzerland, often near Zurich or Bern.
What to expect: Scientific lectures, case-based discussions, hands-on workshops, and industry exhibitions.

These meetings provide Swiss equine vets with practical education while also attracting international speakers, making them a valuable platform for cross-border collaboration.

International Links

The Swiss Equine Veterinary Association is a committed member of FEEVA (Federation of European Equine Veterinary Associations), ensuring Swiss veterinarians are represented in European-level discussions on welfare, policy, and professional standards.

Through FEEVA, SVPM connects with organisations such as BEVA (UK), AVEF (France), BEPS (Belgium), GPM/GEVA (Germany) and Società Italiana Veterinari per Equini (Italy)

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

For Swiss veterinarians, SVPM provides:

A professional identity tailored to equine practice.
Access to national CPD opportunities and international experts.
A collective voice within Switzerland’s veterinary profession.
International connections through FEEVA and BEVA.

For international colleagues, SVPM offers a window into equine veterinary practice in Switzerland, known for its precision, high standards, and long-standing equestrian traditions.

Join Our Community

We already have Swiss equine veterinarians among our subscribers, alongside colleagues from Germany, Italy, and further afield like India. By joining this network, you’ll gain access to professional collaboration, continuing education, and global connections.

With SVPM, you’ll be part of a community dedicated to advancing equine medicine and improving horse welfare worldwide.