About Us
The European Dog Owners Association
At the European Dog Owners Association, we identify and celebrate excellence in canine health innovation across the continent. Our mission focuses on recognizing those exceptional veterinarians, scientists, and organizations that deliver breakthrough solutions in pet care – all while maintaining the highest standards of safety and sustainability.
Our Vision for the Future
We believe Europe can lead the way in transforming pet health care. Our goal is to shine a light on those breakthrough innovations that truly make a difference – from new treatments that keep our dogs healthier to smart solutions that make care easier and more effective.
By celebrating these achievements, we do more than just hand out awards. We inspire the next generation of veterinarians, researchers, and innovators to think bigger and push boundaries. We encourage them to ask „what if?” and „why not?” when it comes to improving our pets’ lives.
This vision drives everything we do. We’re creating a community where brilliant minds come together, where new ideas flourish, and where the future of dog health care takes shape. Because when we recognize excellence today, we pave the way for even greater innovations tomorrow.
What We Stand For
Excellence in Science: We recognize groundbreaking research that sets new standards in veterinary care.
A Greener Future: We champion innovations that protect both our pets and our planet.
Safety First: Every innovation we celebrate must meet the highest safety and ethical standards.
Fresh Thinking: We support creative minds solving today’s pet health challenges in new ways.
Stronger Together: We bring together experts from across Europe to advance pet care through collaboration.
Our Expert Review Board
Our independent review board brings together some of Europe’s brightest minds in veterinary science. Since 2021, we’ve assembled 15 distinguished experts from 7 countries, each carefully chosen for their exceptional contributions to animal health and wellbeing.
Who Are Our Experts?
These aren’t just any veterinary professionals. Each board member holds a doctoral degree and brings at least 15 years of hands-on research experience in fields like veterinary medicine, animal health sciences, or biotechnology. They come from different backgrounds – from preventive care specialists to orthopedic experts, from nutrition scientists to sustainability pioneers.
How We Maintain Independence
To ensure completely fair evaluations, we take independence seriously. Every board member goes through rigorous conflict-of-interest screening and must be transparent about any industry connections. Members serve three-year terms, helping us maintain fresh perspectives and stay current with the latest developments.
Leadership and Operation
Under the guidance of our Board Chair, Dr. Maria Geyer – previously head of the European Institute of Veterinary Science – our board meets every three months to review submissions. Once a year, they gather to update our evaluation criteria, making sure we stay aligned with the latest scientific advances.
Our Unique Evaluation Process
Quick summary
We take a thorough, four-step approach to finding the most promising innovations in dog health care. This careful process helps us identify breakthroughs that not only look good on paper but make a real difference in dogs’ lives.
Screening Process
First, we check that each submission has all the necessary paperwork – from veterinary studies to safety certificates. It’s like building a house: you need a solid foundation before anything else can happen.
Scientific Assessment
This is where our experts roll up their sleeves and examine the science behind each innovation. They look at how well it works, how innovative it really is, and most importantly, whether it’s safe for our four-legged friends.
Data Evaluation
Great ideas need to work in the real world, not just in the lab. We look at how well each innovation can be produced at scale and what actual dog owners say about it. After all, the best innovations are the ones that truly help dogs and their families.
Expert Panel Review
Finally, our independent veterinary experts conduct their own blind review. They bring their years of experience to evaluate each innovation’s potential to improve dog health care.
Our Official Timeline
Start Your Journey
February 28 – Submissions Open
Our Evaluation Process
April 1 – 30 – Initial Application Review
May 1 -June 30 – Scientific Assessment
July 1 – 31 – Technical Evaluation
August 15 – September 30 – Expert Panel Review
Grand Finale
November 30 – Winner Announcement
The detailed selection process is here.