About us
What we do?
Founded in 1995, AWSELFA exists to promote understanding and meaningful debate around the issues that shape animal welfare today. We connect the disciplines of welfare science, ethics, law, and forensics under one roof — creating a unique forum where professionals can learn, collaborate, and advocate together.
Our work includes hosting conferences and educational events, publishing the AWSELFA Journal and building an inclusive network of practitioners dedicated to driving real improvements in animal welfare. As part of our growth, we now incorporate the British Veterinary Forensic & Law Association (BVFLA), broadening our reach and deepening our expertise.
We believe that better-informed professionals make a bigger difference. Everything we do is in service of that belief.
Our Mission
Our Mission is to promote the welfare of animals through raising awareness and understanding of animal welfare science, forensics and ethics, and their application to policy, law and practice.
Conferences
Conferences bring together leading voices in animal welfare science, ethics, law, and forensics for meaningful dialogue that goes beyond the podium. Held both in-person and online, our events are designed for rich discussion — with dedicated time for debate that reflects the diverse expertise of our membership.
Resources
AWSELFA is committed to keeping its community informed, inspired, and equipped to make a real difference. Our resources hub brings together a curated collection of tools, publications, and links to support professionals, researchers, and students working across animal welfare science, ethics, law, and forensics.
History of AWSELFA
AWSELFA’s story begins in 1995, when a group of pioneering veterinary professionals came together with a shared conviction: that animal welfare deserved a serious, dedicated space for education and debate. At the time, animal welfare was a nascent subject — underrepresented in curricula and largely absent from mainstream veterinary education. The founders set out to change that.
Originally established to support veterinary surgeons studying for the RCVS Certificate and Diploma in Animal Welfare Science, Ethics and Law, the association quickly grew beyond its original remit. As public, political, and scientific interest in animal welfare expanded, so did the membership — welcoming professionals from law, forensics, animal science, policy, and beyond.
Over the following decades, the association built a reputation for thoughtful, expert-informed debate. Landmark conferences drew international speakers, the AWSELFA Journal became a respected resource, and members played active roles in shaping European veterinary specialisation in animal welfare.
In 2024, the association took its most significant step yet — rebranding from AWSELVA to AWSELFA to formally recognise the inclusion of forensics and to reflect its historic merger with the British Veterinary Forensic & Law Association (BVFLA). The new name tells the full story of who we are: a community united across Animal Welfare, Science, Ethics, Law, and Forensics.
Thirty years on, the mission remains the same. Better knowledge. Better debate. Better outcomes for animals.
Our Membership
We pride ourselves on being an inclusive and friendly Association, which assists its members in developing informed views on topical animal welfare issues. Membership is £25 per year, free to students.