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Dr. Robertson was nominated by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). The AVMA bestowed its 2023 Animal Welfare award to Dr. Robertson in recognition of her achievements in advancing the welfare of animals via leadership, public service, education, research, and advocacy.
Her nomination was based on her lifelong work with companion animals and horses, at both the national and international levels. Dr. Robertson has served as president of the American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia (ACVAA) and is a charter member of the American College of Animal Welfare. She has been the scientific organizer for the World Veterinary Conference of Anesthesia and served on several taskforces and committees for professional organizations, including the AVMA, Association of Shelter Veterinarians, American Association of Feline Practitioners, International Society of Feline Medicine, American Animal Hospital Association, and World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA).
Dr. Robertson’s work on the WSAVA’s Global Pain Council led to the development of the 2014 and 2022 Guidelines for Recognition, Assessment, and Treatment of Pain, providing analgesic protocols that fit each global situation. This work reflects her engagement in international spay and neuter clinics where there is limited access to drugs. She has also developed anaesthetic protocols for paediatric patients. Dr. Robertson is a strong advocate for the care of working dogs and has trained countless K9 handlers to care for their dogs when deployed on missions.
Dr. Robertson is the third category winner to be announced in the run up to the Awards ceremony which will take place on the 17th of April during the 39th World Veterinary Association Congress (WVAC), in Cape Town, South Africa.
The winners of the remaining awards for Veterinary Education, and - the Veterinary Student of the Year, supported by the International Veterinary Students’ Association (IVSA), will be announced in the months leading up to the event.
One overall winner will be named as Veterinarian of the Year on stage during the ceremony. Speaking on behalf of the WVA, Dr Enid Stiles, Chair of the Animal Welfare Working Group, said:
"This award is more than a recognition of the insurmountable work that Dr. Robertson has accomplished over the past 40 years in animal welfare and ethics, it is also an expression of our deepest gratitude. We extend our thanks on behalf of the animals who cannot speak. Through her tireless efforts, Dr. Robertson has significantly enhanced the quality of life of countless companion animals through her work on the recognition and alleviation of pain and end-of-life care. This impact is a result of her advocacy, research, education, and passionate involvement in professional associations."
Dr. Robertson was nominated by the American Veterinary Association (AVMA): "It was an honor to nominate Dr. Sheilah Robertson for the World Veterinary Association's Animal Welfare Award,” said Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the AVMA. “Dr. Robertson's lifelong dedication to animal welfare, encompassing her pioneering work in pain management, her impactful leadership roles, and her commitment to veterinary education, truly sets her apart. Dr. Robertson's work has not only improved the lives of countless animals but has also shaped the future of veterinary practice. We at the AVMA are delighted to see her outstanding achievements recognized globally and extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Robertson on this well-deserved award."
March 7, 2024 - Ceva Santé Animale
