The British Veterinary Zoological Society (BVZS) is the Non-Territorial Division of the British Veterinary Association BVA) recognised as having responsibility for exotic pets, companion avian species and zoo animals. Founded in 1961(see details of inaugural meeting ) the BVZS nowadays has an international membership and finds itself involved in almost every aspect of the care and welfare of exotic pets, zoo animals and wildlife.
The aims of the society are to promote the advancement of veterinary knowledge and skill in the maintenance of the health and welfare of non-domesticated animals and to encourage proper housing and conditions for such animals; to encourage full use of veterinary services by wild animal establishments and by the owners of exotic animals; to promote the international exchange of veterinary knowledge of non-domesticated animals.
The current membership of the BVZS: 325 paid up members which consist of:-
In addition to the above there are several other persons/organisations on the mailing list.
The membership includes veterinarians and non-veterinarians working with exotic species at all levels, from those in general practice providing a service for herpetologists, aviculturists, aquarists and the owners of exotic pets, to those working part-time and full-time in animal sanctuaries, wildlife parks, bird gardens, zoos and aquaria, and with free living wild animals. Members also work in the fields of zoology and other aspects of exotic animal care e.g. pet shop ownership and film work.
The BVZS liaises with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons on the subject of continuing professional development and further specialist qualifications, including the Certificate and Diploma in Zoological Medicine and with other organisations in the many aspects of zoo, wildlife and exotic animal medicine.
The annual subscription as of January 1st 2009 is £73.50 for full members and associate members. Student rates are £26.50 per annum and Veterinary Nurses being for 2009 this is £42.50. See the join link page for further details. Council members must be members of the BVA. A full BVZS member is defined as a veterinary surgeon who is also a member of the BVA. A Veterinarian not being a BVA member is deemed as being an associate member. Membership application forms are available on this website from the join page.
Information is provided to members by:
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Twice yearly scientific meetings held at different venues throughout the UK e.g. university veterinary field stations and zoological collections. Proceedings from each of these meetings are published
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Biannual Zoomed the Bulletin of the BVZS (which includes a newletter and peer reviewed papers)
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A BSAVA Satellite day
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Contact with individual veterinary surgeons and with recognised student branches in our veterinary schools
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Specialist courses to aid in CPD
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An e-mail list server open to BVZS members only. Further details on this can be obtained from
Derek Lyon Administrative Director BVZS.
Through The Zebra Foundation for Veterinary Zoological Education, the BVZS takes an active role in promoting education for the veterinary undergraduate and postgraduate.
Student Involvement
Veterinary students are encouraged to attend our meetings (for a reduced fee) and often act as stewards. Attendance at such meetings allows communication with people who may be able to help with Extra Mural Studies. At recent meetings delegates have enjoyed interesting presentations of student research projects including those sponsored by the Zebra Foundation.
The BVZS has encouraged the formation of student groups at the Veterinary Schools, and will do all it can to help their development. Many of the groups are now affiliated to the BVZS. The BVZS Student Liaison Officer is Kevin Eatwell
BVZS Prize
Applications for the BVZS Prize for the best publication for 2006 are invited. Details are available.
BVZS Vetark and Bayer Student Prizes
At each BVZS meeting of which there are 2 per annum,a Spring meeting and an Autumn meeting, there will be student prizes for the best student presentation at each of those meetings, if deemed worthy of merit, that will be kindly awarded by either Vetark or Bayer to the value of 100.00 pounds sterling.
BVZS Poster Prizes
As above at each BVZS meeting the BVZS will award a prize of 100.00 pounds sterling for the best Student poster if deemed worthy of merit.
Page lasted updated May 26th 2009
