On 18 March, UEVP Vice-Presidents Jan Bernardy, Ann Criel and Julien Le Tual met with Hedvika Vurbalova, on behalf of Veronika Vrecionová MEP, at the European Parliament in Brussels. As member of the European Parliament, Ms Vrecionová is chair of EP's AGRI committee, which focuses on issues related to agriculture and animal health and welfare.
Shortage of veterinarians
A key discussion point was the shortage of veterinarians, particularly in farm animal practice and in remote or underserved areas. The UEVP delegation stressed that this is not only a professional concern, but has direct consequences for disease surveillance, biosecurity, food production, animal welfare and the resilience of rural communities. Ms Vrecionová has submitted a parliamentary question on this matter.
ID & registration of pets
The UEVP delegation also highlighted the importance of the identification and microchipping of dogs and cats in connection with the forthcoming EU legislation. ‘The successful implementation of this legislation will depend to a large extent on veterinary practitioners, who will carry out identification and registration of pets. Their acceptance of the system is crucial to ensuring that the new rules are workable.’
Invitation to the November UEVP GA
The discussion also confirmed the value of continued dialogue between European policymakers and practising veterinarians, especially in areas where legislation depends on realistic implementation at field level. Ms Vurbalova accepted the invitation on behalf of Ms Vrecionová to attend the UEVP general assembly on 12 November 2026 in Brussels.
Photo: Ann Criel, Juan Le Tual and Jan Bernardy at the European Parliament in Brussels (©Jan Bernardy)