Spanish veterinary associations celebrate San Francisco de Asís

Veterinary professional associations in Spain celebrated the feast day of San Francisco de Asís, the patron saint of the profession, with institutional ceremonies in Madrid and Ciudad Real.

In Madrid, the Colegio Oficial de Veterinarios de Madrid (COLVEMA) held an academic-professional event at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid. The ceremony honored 22 honorary members, including Cristeta Fraile, Marisa Fermín, and Joaquín Ranz. COLVEMA President Felipe Vilas emphasized the profession's social responsibility, noting its role in food security, disease prevention, and research. He also addressed challenges facing the sector, such as labor conditions, salaries, and the difficulty of retaining professionals in rural areas and companion animal clinics.

In Ciudad Real, the Colegio de Veterinarios de Ciudad Real held a commemorative act attended by Mayor Francisco Cañizares. The event included the presentation of badges to new members, those celebrating 25 years of service, and recent retirees. Local officials highlighted the veterinary profession's vital contribution to public health and research regarding animal viruses and food safety.