Representing WSAVA, Immediate Past President Ellen van Nierop joined global leaders to highlight the role of companion animals in addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR), an area often overlooked in global discussions.
While AMR is already responsible for over one million deaths each year worldwide, conversations have traditionally focused on livestock. Ellen emphasised the need to broaden this perspective:
“Hundreds of millions of homes globally include companion animals—living closely with people and sharing microbes, including resistant ones.”
She also highlighted WSAVA’s practical, ground-up approach—translating science into accessible tools and ensuring that the realities of clinical practice inform global strategies.
A key message from the forum was the importance of collaboration. Through its partnership with WOAH, WSAVA is helping bridge the gap between policy and practice, supporting veterinary professionals and strengthening AMR awareness worldwide.
“AMR is not a livestock issue, or a companion animal issue. It is a One Health issue—and it requires all of us at the table.”
WSAVA remains committed to working with partners to ensure companion animal health is fully integrated into the global response to AMR, helping turn awareness into action.