You are well aware of society's increased concern for the ethical and compassionate care of humans and animals suffering from pain and distress. In veterinary medicine, research findings and clinical experience are rapidly expanding our understanding of pain in animals. Through a variety of educational modalities, veterinarians have the opportunity to improve their understanding of pain, and to incorporate this new found knowledge into their day to day practice. The goal of the IVAPM is to facilitate this process. Cutting-edge practitioners are already changing the face of veterinary medicine with an ethic that includes the consideration and treatment of pain in every patient. This ethic recognizes that treating pain is a fundamental part of practicing good medicine. The paradigm with respect to pain in animals has already begun to shift. This group needs to be on the forefront of this change.

The Mission Statement of the IVAPM best articulates a description of the organization as well as its vision at this time:

"The International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management is a multi-disciplinary organization that seeks to promote the acquisition and dissemination of cross-species knowledge related to the biology and clinical treatment of pain in animals 

The International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management is a unique organization dedicated to promoting, enhancing, and advancing pain management in animals. The practice of pain medicine demands an interdisciplinary approach, incorporating multiple modalities to ensure the comprehensive evaluation and treatment of the painful patient. The IVAPM represents the diverse scope of this field through membership from a variety of origins, including veterinarians, credentialed veterinary nurses, veterinary assistants, researchers, veterinary practice managers, etc. The integration of these perspectives is essential to treating pain in animals and establishing continuity of care.

Founded in 2003, the IVAPM intends to become the recognized leading forum and resource in animal pain for the veterinary profession through research, education, and advocacy. The IVAPM hopes to facilitate contact, conversation, and the free exchange of information among like-minded individuals in an inclusionary manner. This website will provide access to archived information as well as to literature and abstracts relevant to pain management in animals. Thanks for your interest in the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management!