Welcome to the first
Integrative Veterinary Medicine Conference, South Africa
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Shaping the Future of Veterinary Care
It is with great excitement and pride that we invite you to attend the First Integrative Veterinary Medicine Conference in South Africa which will take place from 31 July – 2 August 2026 at the Protea Hotel Marriott Techno Park, Stellenbosch. This is a landmark event marking a new chapter in the evolution of veterinary care in our country.
Integrative Veterinary Medicine (IVM) represents the thoughtful integration of complementary therapies with conventional veterinary treatment, guided by the best available scientific evidence. Rather than replacing traditional medical and surgical care, IVM enhances it – supporting improved clinical outcomes, patient comfort, and long-term health management in modern veterinary practice.
Across the globe, veterinary professionals are embracing modalities such as acupuncture, rehabilitation therapy, therapeutic laser and ultrasound, integrative nutrition, herbal medicine, and massage therapy as valuable adjuncts to conventional care. Veterinary institutions worldwide are recognising this important shift. In fact, surveys of American Veterinary Medical Association-accredited colleges reveal that the majority now incorporate some level of IVM teaching or clinical service – underscoring its growing role in evidence-based veterinary medicine.
This inaugural South African conference will bring together 50-70 respected international and local clinicians, educators, and practitioners who actively practice and teach integrative approaches.
Over the course of the event, you can expect:
- Practical, evidence-based learning
- Real-world case applications
- Interactive discussions and collaboration
- Expanded clinical tools for everyday practice
We warmly invite veterinarians, veterinary nurses, rehabilitation practitioners, and students to join us in shaping the future of veterinary medicine in South Africa.
Be part of this pioneering gathering. Expand your knowledge. Strengthen your practice. Help lead the way in integrative veterinary care.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Dr Roselle Hartwigsen
Conference Chairperson