The main theme of the Congress, ‘Ethology for Health and Welfare’, was chosen to reflect the prominence that applied ethology has in the field of animal welfare and to encourage the development of applied ethology in studies to promote animal health. The location of this year’s Congress within the Atlantic Veterinary College at the University of Prince Edward Island has provided the focus on veterinary aspects of ethology and welfare. Applied ethology continues to develop and expand, and we have showcased recent developments in play behaviour and other key topics.