From 27–29 May 2026 the annual scientific meeting of the European College of Veterinary
Ophthalmologists (ECVO) was held in Madrid, Spain. With its rich cultural heritage, world-
renowned museums, vibrant atmosphere, and outstanding gastronomy, Madrid provided
the perfect setting for three days of scientific exchange, education, and networking. The
conference was hosted at the Círculo de Bellas Artes, one of the city's most iconic cultural
institutions and a historic centre for creativity and intellectual exchange.
The highly appreciated hybrid conference format from previous years was continued,
allowing delegates to participate either in person or online. All sessions were recorded and
remained available to registered participants until the end of August 2026.
The conference brought together an international community of veterinary
ophthalmologists, practicing veterinarians with a passion for ophthalmology, and industry
exhibitors to share the latest scientific discoveries, discuss recent advances, and explore
innovative products shaping the future of veterinary ophthalmology. We are deeply grateful
to all exhibitors and sponsors whose continued support once again made this meeting
possible.
The Scientific Committee, led by Inge Slenter, developed an outstanding scientific
programme. This year's meeting introduced a new format with an Advanced Ophthalmology
Insights Day, featuring high-level lectures delivered by internationally renowned experts
including William Beltran, Brian Gilger, András Komáromy, Lionel Sebbag, Inge Slenter, and
Ronette Gehring, who shared their expertise, clinical experience, and practical insights with
the attendees.
The conference continued with two full scientific days filled with case reports, clinical
presentations, and research findings from specialists around the world. The State of the Art
Lecture was delivered by Dr. Els Broens (University of Utrecht, The Netherlands), a leading
veterinary microbiologist and internationally recognised expert in antimicrobial resistance.
Her inspiring lecture highlighted current challenges and future perspectives in responsible
antimicrobial use in veterinary medicine.
As always, the ECVO conference also provided excellent opportunities for social interaction.
The Welcome Reception took place at the spectacular rooftop terrace of the Círculo de
Bellas Artes, offering panoramic views over Madrid. The Conference Dinner was held at the
historic Real Fábrica de Tapices, a unique venue that provided the perfect atmosphere for
networking and celebrating with colleagues.
During the General Assembly, the ECVO welcomed its new Diplomates. Congratulations to:
Awards
Best and second best oral resident presentation : ‘Christine Heinrich award'
1. Ana Cristina Piroth: Polyhexanide, povidone-iodine, and hypochlorous acid show
rapid time-dependent in-vitro killing within 15 to 60 seconds against common
pathogens of canine infectious keratitis.
2. Guido Cardone: Prospective evaluation of ocular disease associated with trigeminal
neuropathy in dogs. Preliminary data.
Best oral presentation
Lena Ström: Equine eosinophilic ulcerative keratitis: corneal ulcer healing time after diamond
burr debridement in 41 eyes (32 horses).
Best and second best poster presentation
1. Joschka Spornberger: Descemet's membrane detachment in two guinea pigs and follow-up.
2. Oren Pe'er: Reversible bilateral optic neuropathy associated with bilateral
masticatory muscle myositis in a dog – Case Report.
Under the theme "Innovations in Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics", the 2026 ECVO
Conference once again provided an outstanding platform for scientific exchange, continuing
education, and international collaboration. The combination of an excellent scientific
programme, a renewed conference format, and Madrid's unique cultural setting made this
year's meeting another memorable and highly successful ECVO congress.