One Team, One Programme: what to expect from WSAVA Congress 2026

As Chief Learning and Development Officer at the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), Debbie Gray leads the design and delivery of the association’s global education strategy. A UK-qualified veterinary nurse with a Diploma in Leadership and an MBA, she also collaborates with the Education Committee to shape the WSAVA Congress programme.

A milestone for veterinary nursing

At this year’s congress in Warsaw, the nursing and interdisciplinary programme marks an important first: a dedicated stream for veterinary nurses and the wider clinical team. Open to both qualified nurses and those in technical or support roles, sessions will focus on practical, practice-ready topics: from triage and patient assessment to nurse-led clinics, nutrition, anaesthesia planning and pain management.

Breaking down professional barriers

While the nursing stream is a major step forward, it’s far from exclusive. ‘It’s also highly valuable for veterinarians,’ Gray explains, ‘offering insights into how nurses contribute to patient care and practice efficiency.’ Delegates are encouraged to explore sessions across all streams, fostering shared learning and a more integrated approach within veterinary teams.

Team topics for better outcomes

Themes such as wellness, end-of-life care and sustainability run throughout the programme, reflecting their relevance to the entire veterinary team. With a strong focus on collaboration, sessions aim to strengthen team dynamics, improve efficiency and ultimately enhance patient outcomes, while also creating valuable networking opportunities within the global veterinary community.

What, where and when

The joint WSAVA/FECAVA/PSLWMZ Congress 2026 takes place in Warsaw from 13–15 October 2026. Abstract submissions, including from veterinary nurses, are now open. The nursing stream (14 October) features speakers such as Matthew Rendle, Elanor Haskey, Gina Parkes, Rachel Lumbis, Lisa Angell and others. The scientific programme also includes a range of topics for the entire team, including resilience, end-of-life care and virtual veterinary care.

DISCLAIMER: Please note that what veterinary nurses can and cannot do legally may differ per country.