The European College of Animal Reproduction (ECAR) was established in 1998 with the aim to:
- Act as an institution to qualify members of the veterinary profession as specialists in animal reproduction by establishing and defining the standard of qualification.
- Develop of graduate teaching programmes in animal reproduction.
- Develop and supervise continuing education programmes for veterinarians interested in animal reproduction.
- Encourage members to pursue original investigations and to contribute to the scientific literature.
- Define and describe the speciality disciplines of animal reproduction.
- Supervise the professional activities of its members.
- Promote co-operation with national veterinary associations, breeders associations, government institutions and international agencies
In order to become a member of ECAR a residency period of a minimum of three years has to be followed, in which candidates are trained in all aspects of animal reproduction. Since the start of the ECAR examinations , which will take place on an annual basis, there are now 221 diplomates that obtained their European diploma in Animal Reproduction via examination, with a further 108 registered as founding members (these obtained their diplomate status on merit when the college was established). ECAR diplomates are currently working across 29 countries in Europe, but also in South Africa, New Zealand, Australia as well as South and North America. All diplomates are required to stay up to date with the latest developments in the area and have to document publications, conference attendance as well as resident supervision (amongst others) to maintain their diplomate status on a five yearly basis.