Animal welfare
In this article:
- Discover AVMA resources that support veterinarians in preserving the welfare of animals in any setting.
- Find AVMA policies, comprehensive literature reviews, and practical guidance on key animal welfare topics, including animal abuse; humane endings; and the human-animal bond.
- Get information about AVMA volunteer positions, awards, and education resources pertaining to animal welfare.
Protecting animal welfare is a veterinary commitment that encompasses all aspects of an animal’s wellbeing, both physical and mental. Good animal welfare requires disease prevention and treatment, responsible care, proper housing, management, nutrition, humane handling, and—when necessary—humane euthanasia.
AVMA resources help guide the profession in our commitment to preserve the welfare of all animals in any setting—from pets to horses, livestock, poultry, laboratory, zoo, wildlife, and beyond. Explore the materials below by featured topic or species.
Featured topics
Animal welfare resources by species
Companion animals
Equids
Food animals
Laboratory animals
Wildlife and zoo
Volunteer positions
Animal Welfare Committee
Steering Committee on Human-Animal Interactions
Animal welfare awards
AVMA Animal Welfare Award
Bustad Companion Animal Veterinarian of the Year Award
AVMA Humane Award