9–10 May 2026 | Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu
We invite you to join us for a two-day international conference focused on practical, evidence-based approaches for improving animal welfare in veterinary clinic settings. Animal welfare is undoubtedly an increasingly important aspect of modern veterinary medicine, and so there is a growing need for accessible, science-based education that supports both high-quality clinical care and the wellbeing of animals.
The program includes lectures and workshops covering general welfare principles in companion animal and equine practice, with topics such as low-stress handling, behavioural assessment and environmental modification. Speakers are field experts from the United Kingdom, Finland, and Estonia.
The conference is aimed at veterinary students, veterinarians, veterinary technicians and animal behaviourists. Organised by veterinary medicine students in collaboration with international student organisations, this event offers up-to-date knowledge, practical insights, and valuable professional connections in a welfare-focused veterinary context.
About the Conference
No Stress supports the veterinary community in making clinical work safer and more rewarding. Our goal is to reduce stress for patients of all sizes by introducing practical, evidence-based welfare strategies. By connecting students and professionals, we create a hub for mutual learning and lasting support. We believe that animal welfare is a value best championed by a group, and we are dedicated to building a community that upholds these standards together.
Our main goal is to create a safe and welcoming space where everyone can learn, stay curious, exchange ideas, and share our common passion for veterinary medicine.
Our conference is the result of the dedicated work of many students from the Estonian University of Life Sciences. The student organisations that made this event possible are:
- Hyraco
- Estonian Veterinary Student Association (EVÜS)
- International Veterinary Student Association (IVSA) Estonia
- Suolet ry
Registration
Prices
Early bird (until 09.04.2026):
- Veterinarian, vet technician/nurse and behaviorist - 45€
- Veterinary student - 35€
Late bird:
- Veterinarian, vet technician/nurse and behaviorist - 70€
- Veterinary student - 60€
Preliminary Programme
The link for the full programme will be added later.
Day 1
The first day of our programme will focus on the foundations of learning theory, animals’ perception of the world, emotional states in animals, and pain assessment. These core topics will provide participants with a deeper understanding of how animals experience their environment and clinical procedures.
The day will conclude with a panel discussion featuring specialists and clinicians, who will share their perspectives on the future of veterinary clinics, particularly in terms of improving patient welfare and creating lower-stress clinical environments.
Day 2
The second day of the conference will be dedicated to species-specific handling techniques designed to reduce stress and minimise risks for both veterinary professionals and their patients. We will also explore the role of pharmaceutical support in stress reduction and discuss the importance of the bond between animals and their owners in ensuring successful treatment and overall well-being.
The day will conclude with practical workshops, offering participants the opportunity to apply the concepts discussed in the lectures and gain hands-on experience in a supportive learning environment.
Speakers
Our conference is bringing together field specialists from Estonia, Finland and the United Kingdom.
Speakers are announced continuously. Stay tuned!
Laura Kiiroja
Laura Kiiroja (PhD) — Ethologist & Human–Animal Interaction Researcher
Laura Kiiroja is an ethologist specialising in animal behaviour, human–animal relationships, and communication. Her academic path began at the University of Tartu, where her Bachelor’s and Master’s research explored the socialisation of captive wild canids with humans. Her research had an applied focus, including hand-raising red foxes in Norway and grey wolves in Germany. She earned her PhD in 2024 at Dalhousie University (Canada), focusing on assistance dogs for people with PTSD and dogs’ scent-based detection of PTSD episodes. Alongside research, Laura has extensive international field experience with both wild and domestic animals, and she is actively involved in wolf-related initiatives in Estonia. Since 2018, she has also developed a strong focus on cat behaviour and welfare, delivering courses and consultations and teaching university-level modules in anthrozoology and cat wellbeing.
Tuulia Appleby
Tuulia Appleby (DVM, PGDip CABC) — Veterinary Clinician and Companion Animal Behaviour Counsellor
Tuulia graduated from the University of Zürich in 2002. While working as a clinician, she completed a postgraduate Diploma in Companion Animal Behaviour Counselling at the University of Southampton (2008).
She is currently based in Finland, where she works at the Kpedu vocational college. There, she oversees the small animal practice and teaches veterinary nurses, animal trainers, and veterinarians. Her teaching and clinical work emphasize calm, gentle, and low-stress handling of patients.
Alongside her passion for dogs, Tuulia has a particular fondness for cats and horses — and her home naturally includes representatives of each species.
Abstract submission
Deadline for abstract submission: 29th of March 2026
Instructions & template
Please submit your abstract by completing the online submission form at the bottom of this page. Instructions for poster format will be sent out via e-mail in case of acceptance of your abstract.
Instructions for authors
- Submissions must be made via the official online form on this website.
- Each abstract will be reviewed confidentially and scored by one or two independent reviewers.
- Submitted material must not infringe copyright or other intellectual property rights.
- You may submit more than one abstract.
- For each abstract, at least the presenting author must be registered for the conference.
- The Scientific Committee reserves the right to accept or decline any submission.
Abstract template
Tartu
Tartu is a small yet vibrant city in Southern Estonia, widely known as the intellectual and cultural heart of the country. While it is a charming weekend getaway destination, it is also an internationally recognised centre of science and education, home to the historic University of Tartu and a thriving academic community.
We invite you to explore its calm and green beauty. Climb Toomemägi Hill to discover the impressive ruins of the Tartu Cathedral (Dome Cathedral) and enjoy scenic views over the city. Stroll through the well-preserved 19th-century Old Town, where classical architecture meets lively cafés and creative spaces. Take a relaxing walk along the banks of the magnificent Emajõgi River, which flows through the city and adds to its peaceful atmosphere.
With its blend of history, youthful energy, and natural charm, Tartu offers the perfect setting for learning, connection, and inspiration during our conference.
Contact
Congress Venue
Estonian University of Life Sciences, Main Building
F. R. Kreutzwaldi tn 1a, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
Accommodation
We will shortly share information about the accommodation.
Questions
Please feel free to contact us.
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