WSAVA Certificate in Pain Management

The WSAVA Certificate in Pain Management is a comprehensive program designed for professionals working in companion animal health and welfare globally.

The course combines pre-recorded lectures, reading materials, and quizzes to provide a thorough understanding of pain recognition, assessment, and treatment. The curriculum is based on the 2022 WSAVA Guidelines for the Recognition, Assessment, and Treatment of Pain, supplemented with additional topics relevant for professionals working with animal health and welfare globally.

The program is structured into three modules that must be completed sequentially within a maximum of two years. Each module awards a module completion certificate. However, to achieve the WSAVA Certificate in Pain Management, learners must successfully complete all three modules within the specified time.

Advance enrollment for the October 2026 cohort is now open.

Secure your spot as modules begin on 1 October 2026.

Eligibility

This program is open to anyone working with animals. However, only veterinarians and veterinary nurses/technicians are eligible to receive continuing education credit recognition.

Program Structure

Module I: Understanding and Assessing Pain

Duration: 3 months

Content: 12 Lectures

Module II: Preventing and Treating Pain

Duration: 6 months

Content: 24 Lectures

Module III: Pain Management in Practice

Duration: 6 months

Content: 32 Lectures

Learners must complete each module within the specified timeframe to progress.

How will I be assessed?

Learners must complete a multiple-choice quiz at the end of each lecture and score a minimum of 75% to move to the following lecture.

Languages

• English
• Spanish
• Chinese
• Portuguese
• French

We have merged all language options—English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Chinese – into a single, unified course.

This update gives you access to:

• Translated presentations for every lecture in Spanish, French, Portuguese, and Chinese.
• AI-translated video subtitles in all supported languages.

Why Enroll?

• Gain advanced knowledge on managing pain in companion animals.
• Earn recognition with the WSAVA Certificate in Pain Management.
• Enhance your expertise and contribute to global standards in animal welfare.
• Start your journey toward becoming a leader in pain management and animal care today!