What is the IVNTA?
The IVNTA is an association of member countries which seeks to foster and promote links with veterinary nursing staff worldwide by communication and co-operation.

How did the IVNTA start?
In 1992 a meeting was held for interested parties at the WSAVA Congress in Vienna. On October 17, 1993, veterinary nurses and technicians from around the world met in England to establish the IVNTA. The event was hosted by the British Veterinary Nursing Association and was attended by over 1,000 nurses, from 15 different countries.

How do I join?
If you already belong to a member organization (see list) you will automatically be a member of the IVNTA. Contact them for more information. If not, you may apply to become an associate member by contacting the IVNTA secretariat. If you want to know more about the IVNTA, contact the professional organisation for veterinary nurses and/or technicians in your own country.

What are the aims?

• To promote the profession of veterinary nursing worldwide.
• Raise the standards of veterinary nursing training and care.
• Provide mutual help and support between member countries.
• Encourage mutual understanding and recognition of qualifications.
• Liaise with all interested parties.
• Foster an exchange of experience, knowledge and staff between member countries.

What unites members?
There are many contrasts between different member countries' training and conditions for veterinary nursing staff. There are also many similarities which unite them:

• Veterinary nurses/technicians are a valuable part of the veterinary team.
• Veterinary nursing is developing and progressing rapidly on a global basis.
• Many countries have established a professional body to represent veterinary nursing staff with the aim of developing professional standards and career paths for VN's and technicians in their country.
• Veterinary nurse training is useful for many other areas of employment and professional advancement .
• Veterinary nursing is a rewarding and popular career and one that is becoming valued by our colleagues worldwide.

What does the IVNTA do?
The secretariat for the IVNTA is hosted by various member countries so that the work is shared wherever possible. The current secretariat is Canada (contact Sandy Hass RVT - email s.vettech@sasktel.net current website link www.savt.ca) The secretariat is responsible for:

1. Producing a regular newsletter to be sent to the official body (or individual if no body exists) in each member country to distribute to its own members.
2. Organising a regular general meeting of members, possibly at its own AGM or Congress.
3. Updating of the membership list.
4. Informing members of relevant events and information.
5. Providing a channel of open communication for members to express their views.
6. Offering help and advice to inquirers.