American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has announced it will co-host the 40th World Veterinary Association (WVA) Congress alongside its annual convention, taking place July 10–14, 2026, at the Anaheim Convention Center.
Because the WVA Congress only co-locates with the AVMA every several years, the upcoming joint session marks the most important international veterinary gathering of 2026. It establishes a unified global forum for clinical science, leadership, and animal health policy under one roof.
Keynote Focus: Dr. Mark Penning on Wildlife Care & Media Conservation
The opening ceremony keynote, scheduled for July 11, features Dr. Mark Penning, who is stepping into the spotlight following his recently announced transition from Vice President of Animals, Science, and Environment for Disney Experiences to the incoming Director of the North Carolina Zoo.
Sponsored by Hill’s Pet Nutrition and the AVMA Trust, Dr. Penning’s address—titled “Hugged by a Mountain Gorilla: Embracing the Need to Protect Animals and Their Habitats”—will provide an inside look at how Disney structures veterinary welfare standards across high-throughput destinations like Disney’s Animal Kingdom and The Seas at Epcot.His presentation will highlight science-based storytelling and the shifting strategies behind how animals are integrated into Hollywood entertainment.
Strategic Impact for Multi-National Corporations
For public health teams, government affairs specialists, and regulatory executives at tier-one animal health multinationals, the Anaheim convention serves as an essential policy hub.
The technical tracks are heavily focused on navigating regulatory barriers, harmonizing cross-border clinical standards, and addressing Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). By connecting international policymakers directly with industry leaders, the joint convention provides a clear framework for shaping the global animal health pipeline over the coming decade.
