The University of Florida Veterinary Forensic Sciences Laboratory will host the second annual Animal ForensiCon: The Animal Forensic Investigations Conference, May 7-9, 2025, at the Shores Resort & Spa in Daytona Beach Shores, FL. This conference offers animal control officers, law enforcement officers, veterinarians, veterinary technicians, forensic scientists, and attorneys the opportunity to learn new techniques and acquire knowledge about the rapidly evolving field of animal forensic science. Early bird registration for the conference is open through March 1, 2025, and poster abstract proposals are being accepted through March 28, 2025.
Animal cruelty knows no boundaries and is associated with many forms of interpersonal violence. Animal victims are voiceless. Those investigating animal cruelty cases face many challenges, including funding limitations and training gaps, as well as restricted access to specialists who can provide animal forensic science expertise. Animal ForensiCon will offer attendees workshop trainings and lectures designed to teach new techniques, refresh old skills, and share strategies improving the outcomes of animal cruelty investigations.
Speakers for the event include Dr. Adam Stern, Professor of Forensic Pathology at the University of Florida, Lauryn Day, Senior Assistant Statewide Prosecutor at the Florida Office of Statewide Prosecution, and Laura Koivula, Director of Animal Crimes and Investigations at the Humane Society of the United States. All the experts presenting at the conference will bring extensive experience and insight regarding the investigation and prosecution of animal cruelty. They will set the stage for future discussions and networking opportunities to inspire others to use animal forensic science during their investigations.
“This conference brings together professionals dedicated to fighting animal cruelty,” said Dr. Stern. “Animal ForensiCon provides a wide range of professional disciplines with a unique opportunity to come together, share experiences, and develop solutions which will ultimately be used to advocate for animals everywhere.”
For more details on registration, poster abstract submission, and hotel information, visit https://animalforensics.vetmed.ufl.edu/training/2025-animal-forensic-investigations-conference. Early registration is $350 through March 1, 2025 and $150 for students.