AVMA releases latest version of its euthanasia guidelines

(SCHAUMBURG, Illinois) January 15, 2020—The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has released the latest version of its Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals. The 2020 guidelines feature the latest research, information and member input to provide veterinarians with science-based and practically sound guidance for relieving the suffering and pain of animals to be euthanized.

An update to the AVMA’s 2013 version, the new guidelines are available on the AVMA website at avma.org/euthanasia.

Originally published in 1963, the AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals are globally recognized as representing best practices in humanely ending animals’ lives when necessary. The guidelines are one of the three resources that comprise AVMA’s Humane Endings policy series, which includes the AVMA Guidelines for the Humane Slaughter of Animals and the AVMA Guidelines for the Depopulation of Animals.

Now in its ninth edition, the AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals covers a multitude of species and methods, and includes information about animals' physiologic and behavioral responses to euthanasia, euthanasia's effects on those performing and observing it, and the feasibility and impacts of various euthanasia approaches. The guidelines are intended to support veterinarians, who must then use their professional judgment in applying them to the various settings where animals are to be euthanized.

For more information, contact Michael San Filippo, AVMA senior media relations specialist, at 847-285-6687 (office), 847-732-6194 (cell) or msanfilippoavma [dot] org.