The National Reference Centre for Urban Veterinary Hygiene and Non-Epidemic Emergencies (IUVENE) was established by Ministerial Decree of 19 March 2013 (published in the Official Gazette on 16 August 2013) and has the following responsibilities:

• Establishing a structured and permanent network of representatives within individual Istituti Zooprofilattici Sperimentali.
• Providing technical and scientific support to the Ministry of Health for the development and implementation of control, surveillance, and monitoring plans for stray dog and cat populations, as well as developing manuals and operational procedures.
• Defining programmes for the surveillance and control of pests relevant to public health.
• Drafting emergency plans and related operational manuals, specifically concerning animal health and welfare and food safety, within the scope of veterinary public health.
• Carrying out any other activities related to urban veterinary hygiene and non-epidemic emergencies.

The National Reference Centre is also responsible for developing training programmes in urban veterinary hygiene and non-epidemic emergencies, targeted at local government operators, veterinary professionals from local health authorities (ASLs), private veterinarians, and volunteers, ensuring they are equipped to address the evolving demands in this field at both national and international levels.