“Don’t Touch” campaign and 1,700–1,800 veterinarians highlight a congress built on shared purpose

10/02/2026

The 7th International Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Congress (TuVECCA) once again positioned itself as more than a scientific meeting, according to Congress President Doga Ozkul, who described this year’s edition as a “festival” shaped by both high-level education and a strong social message.

Ozkul said TuVECCA drew around 1,700–1,800 veterinarians, reflecting sustained engagement and energy across the community. This year’s central theme, the “Don’t Touch” campaign, was chosen intentionally, she explained, in response to a world that feels increasingly tense and marked by violence. In her remarks, Ozkul said the congress wanted to voice that emotional fatigue and emphasize a shared responsibility to protect the vulnerable—highlighting animals, children, and women—and the importance of coming together around common values.

Beyond the theme, Ozkul pointed to TuVECCA’s ability to attract internationally recognized speakers, describing them as highly responsive and committed to “adding one more” each year. She said the organizing team continues to work closely with speakers to strengthen the program and to bring added value specifically for emergency and critical care practice in Turkiye.

Ozkul also highlighted attendance at the opening ceremony, noting that around 1,600 veterinarians were together at the launch. She connected that turnout to a challenge in the “information age”: while information is easy to access, reaching correct information is increasingly difficult. She argued that TuVECCA’s curated lectures and carefully selected program offer practical, clinic-ready learning that participants can apply immediately—“on Monday” back in their practices.

You can watch the full exclusive interview on our official YouTube channel.