A century of improving animal health and welfare

Ever since humans inhabited the earth, animals have been an integral part of our lives and sustainability.
One hundred years ago, 28 founding nations came together to address a shared purpose – the health and well-being of animals. From setting standards to amplifying the voice of the veterinary workforce in the global health agenda, we reflect on our journey: a century of improving animal health and welfare.

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Stories

AMR Awareness week 2024_Latin American man pointing at some cows in the corral while working at a cattle farm with his partner livestock concepts

World AMR Awareness Week 2024

World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW) is celebrated from 18 to 24 November every year. This year’s theme, “Educate. Advocate. Act now” calls on the global community to educate stakeholders on AMR, advocate for bold commitments and take concrete actions in response to AMR.

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Animal Diseases

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Working across borders to foster a One Health approach to global health. The health of animals and the environment strongly depend on human activities.

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  • One Health

    One Health

    The “One Health” approach summarises a concept that has been known for more than a century; that human, animal and plant health are interdependent and bound to the health of the ecosystems in which they exist. We envisage and implement it as a collaborative, whole of society, whole of government approach to understanding, anticipating and addressing risks to global health.
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  • Antimicrobial resistance

    Antimicrobial resistance

    Imagine a world where infections and diseases in humans, animals and plants are impossible to treat. This worst-case scenario could become a reality as bacteria, viruses and parasites develop resistance to the drugs we use to fight them. Antimicrobial resistance, or AMR, has become one of the most pressing health issues of our time. Solutions exist and everyone has a role to play in the fight against this global threat.
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  • Disease Data Collection

    Disease Data Collection

    The World Animal Health Information System (WAHIS) is the global reference platform for the publication of official data on epidemiologically important diseases in domestic and wild animals. The data tracks the evolution of diseases, assists in trade and policy decisions, and informs research.
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  • Animal Welfare

    Animal welfare is a complex and multi-faceted subject with scientific, ethical, economic, cultural, social, religious and political dimensions. It is attracting growing interest from civil society and is one of the priorities of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
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  • Aquatic Animals

    Aquatic animals

    Aquatic animals play a key role in achieving a more prosperous and secure world, contributing to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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Science based publications

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