Takuo Ishida, DVM, PhD, DJCVP President of the Federation ofAsian Small Animal Veterinary Associations (FASAVA)

Dear FASAVA Members:

I am honored to have been appointed as the President of FASAVA at the 12th FASAVA Congress in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in July 2024. As a board-certified clinical pathologist from Japan, I have had the privilege of lecturing across Taiwan, Korea, China, and Japan for many years, witnessing firsthand the remarkable growth of veterinary medicine in these regions.

After completing my postdoctoral studies at the University of California, Davis, I returned to Japan to teach at a veterinary school, where I have contributed to the advancement of companion animal medicine. I have also observed the growing recognition of the human-animal bond in society, which has played a key role in shaping the future of our profession.

Through my experiences across Asia, it has become clear to me that societal changes and evolving perspectives on companion animals are the true catalysts for the development of veterinary medicine. Today, the concept of "One Health, One Medicine" extends beyond the human-animal bond. It encompasses critical roles for veterinarians, including zoonotic disease prevention, managing antimicrobial resistance, and protecting the environment. Additionally, by maintaining the health of companion animals, we contribute to human health and well-being.

As veterinarians, our responsibilities are deeply intertwined with the health and happiness of society. Continued professional development (CPD) is vital to fulfilling our mission, as it allows us to better serve and improve our communities. By being part of an international organization like FASAVA, you are keeping your "window" open to the world, allowing fresh ideas and modern practices in veterinary medicine to flow in. This connection reassures us that we are not alone in our efforts.

I encourage you all to keep your windows open and join me as we move forward, hand in hand, toward a brighter future for veterinary medicine and society.

Sincerely,
Takuo Ishida, DVM, PhD, DJCVP