The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) has rolled out its latest edition of its Global Vaccination Guidelines, offering the most up-to-date scientific insights on vaccinating dogs and cats worldwide. Developed by the WSAVA’s Vaccination Guidelines Group (VGG), the Guidelines are now accessible for free download from the WSAVA website, having undergone peer-review by the Journal of Small Animal Practice, the association’s official scientific journal.
This updated version encompasses a range of enhancements and additional content, including:
- A redefined definition of core vaccines
- A fresh section on maternal antibody (MDA)
- Updated segments covering current and emerging topics in canine and feline clinical vaccinology, along with insights into vaccine usage in shelters and sanctuaries.
The VGG has also crafted Regional Vaccination Guidelines for veterinarians in Asia and Latin America and is embarking on a four-year initiative aimed at bolstering understanding of infectious diseases across Sub-Saharan Africa and advising veterinarians on optimal vaccination practices. As part of this initiative, a review of infectious disease prevalence and current vaccination practices in the region will be conducted, alongside the provision of continuing education on vaccination. In 2026, a comprehensive set of Regional Vaccination Guidelines for Sub-Saharan Africa will be published.
Establishing global benchmarks for companion animal veterinary care stands as a key objective for the WSAVA. The VGG, comprised of experts from around the globe, is dedicated to furnishing evidence-based scientific guidance to the global veterinary community on dog and cat vaccination. The team includes Chair Mary Marcondes (Brazil), Richard Squires (Australia), Cynda Crawford (US), and Nathaniel Whitley (UK).
“We’re delighted to announce the publication of the 2024 WSAVA Global Vaccination Guidelines,” Marcondes said. “Representing several years of collaborative effort by the VGG, these guidelines offer the latest insights into vaccination practices for dogs and cats.”
“We trust that the scientific evidence encapsulated within the Guidelines will render them a valuable and practical resource for veterinarians worldwide, contributing to the welfare of companion animals globally.”
“Evidence-based scientific vaccination guidelines are paramount to ensuring optimal vaccine practice for dogs and cats,” David Sutton of MSD, the Sole Partner of the VGG since its 2006 inception, said. “We are honoured to support the work of the WSAVA’s Vaccination Guidelines Group and these significant new Guidelines, which will aid in preventing the spread of infectious diseases and furthering the wellbeing of small companion animals.”
To download the updated guidelines, visit www.wsava.org.
