policy
AVMA policy on veterinary technology
The AVMA recognizes the value of veterinary technicians as an integral component of veterinary medicine and urges full utilization of veterinary…
policy
Canine devocalization
The AVMA strongly discourages the devocalization of dogs because of the surgery's negative impacts on animal welfare. Canine devocalization does not…
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Companion animal spay-neuter programs
Every animal, regardless of its ownership, should receive quality veterinary and surgical care.
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Declawing of domestic cats
The AVMA discourages elective declawing of cats and supports non-surgical alternatives, respecting the veterinarian’s right to use professional…
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Dog and cat population management
Dog and cat population management is a complex animal welfare problem, with many contributing factors.
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Ear cropping and tail docking of dogs
The AVMA opposes canine ear cropping and tail docking when done solely for cosmetic purposes, and encourages eliminating ear cropping and tail docking…
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Emotional support animals
The AVMA encourages housing providers covered by the Fair Housing Act or similar laws to ensure they understand and are fully compliant with their…
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Pediatric spay/neuter of dogs and cats
The AVMA supports the concept of pediatric spay/neuter in dogs and cats to reduce the number of unwanted animals. Veterinarians should use their best…
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Service animals
If an animal meets this definition, it is considered a service animal regardless whether it has been licensed or certified by a government or an…
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Surgery or procedures performed on show animals
The AVMA recommends that procedures to correct injury or deformity for an animal’s welfare not be grounds to disqualify the animal from conformation…
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Telemedicine
AVMA is committed to ensuring access to the convenience and benefits afforded by telemedicine, while promoting the responsible provision of…
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The veterinarian’s role in supporting appropriate selection and use of service, assistance and therapy animals
The AVMA encourages veterinarians to be familiar with the legal status and protections accorded to service, assistance, emotional support, and therapy…