About the Caribbean Veterinary Medical Association (CbVMA)
TheCaribbean Veterinary Medical Association (CbVMA) is an association of veterinarians primarily of the English-speaking Caribbean countries in Central and South America and the Caribbean archipelago. Historically, the CbVMA has primarily functioned as the umbrella under which a regional veterinary conference has been held every two years. However, following the 2010 conference, the new executive was mandated by members to strategically plan and pursue the objectives of the ratified CbVMA constitution. Membership is drawn from the veterinary associations and communities of the various CARICOM territories.
The first meetings were formal gatherings of government veterinarians in the British Colonies. This evolved into a biennial meeting for all veterinarians from these English-speaking territories, encompassing broad continuing education goals with an opportunity for them to share experiences, fellowship and fun. These meetings have contributed significantly to the advancement of veterinary policy and the informal dissemination of information in the region. As time progressed the meetings have attracted participants from a wider range of countries. Large contingents of Canadian veterinarians together with smaller numbers from the United States, Europeand other Commonwealth Countries have come to enjoy the warm Caribbean sun and hospitality. In addition, Caribbean nationals in the diaspora have shown special interest in the meetings either as guest speakers or participants taking the unique opportunity to return home and renew old acquaintances.
With renewed vitality and motivation, the CbVMA has embraced the idea of strengthening ties among associations both regionally and extraregionally. In a changing world, it sees the formation of technological, administrative and communication links, as crucial to the success of a developing organization. While committed to its role in the international scientific community it recognizes and seeks to foster a greater understanding of the social, environmental, public health and other local issues which shape our regional veterinary responses.
Mission Statement of the CbVMA
The mission of the Caribbean Veterinary Medical Association is to advance the practice of Veterinary Medicine in the Caribbean Region by providing a forum for integration, communication, and continuing education.
Objectives of the CbVMA
To promote the welfare of Veterinarians.
To foster continuing education to keep members abreast of technology and advances in veterinary science and its practice.
To exchange information on matters of importance in safeguarding the health of animals and thereby the health of the human population in the region.
To facilitate improved methods of breeding, feeding and management of livestock.
To support research and development activities aimed at increasing production and productivity and providing food for the region’s population.
To encourage humane methods of dealing with the region’s animal population, minimizing cruelty and pain.
To guard against the possible extinction of valuable species of animal life.
To promote public education and awareness of the work of Veterinarians and to uplift the image of the profession.
To promote inter-disciplinary activities amongst agricultural, medical and other scientific and technical associations for the purpose of sharing and advancing knowledge.
To liaise with International Veterinary Medical Associations and their members and to promote technology transfer and interaction to mutual benefit.
To foster social interaction between Veterinarians, their families, friends and contemporaries as well as the public at large.
