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Animal loss support services
The grieving process when an animal dies is similar to that experienced by people who have lost a family member or close friend. View the AVMA’s…
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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…
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AVMA guidelines for the depopulation of animals
The AVMA guidelines for the depopulation of animals help members of the veterinary profession make decisions that support animal welfare in emergency…
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AVMA guidelines for the euthanasia of animals
The AVMA guidelines for the euthanasia of animals provide veterinarians guidance in relieving pain and suffering of animals that are to be euthanized.
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Companion animal care guidelines
View general guidelines for the care and humane treatment of animals in nonagricultural facilities such as shelters, pet stores, boarding kennels,…
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Complementary, alternative, and integrative veterinary medicine
All aspects of veterinary medicine should be held to the same standards, including complementary, alternative and integrative veterinary medicine,…
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Embryo transfer and advanced reproductive technology procedures
Embryo transfer and advanced reproductive technology procedures demand a licensed veterinarian's extensive knowledge in anatomy, physiology,…
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Euthanasia of animals that are unwanted or unfit for adoption
The AVMA is not opposed to euthanasia of animals that are unwanted or unfit for adoption, when conducted by qualified personnel using appropriate…
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Internships and residency programs
Find definitions and program criteria for internships and residencies, as well as residency requirements.
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Model policy on harassment and discrimination-free veterinary workplace
This model policy is intended as a starting point for veterinarians. Anti-discrimination and anti-harassment laws may differ greatly from state to…
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Recruiting and retaining public practice veterinarians
The AVMA recognizes the importance of public practice to the veterinary community. Studies by AVMA and other veterinary organizations support…
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Safeguarding care for animals with veterinarian-led teams
The AVMA will vigorously defend the practice of veterinary medicine—including the ability to diagnose, prognose, develop treatment plans, prescribe,…
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The importance of federal veterinarians in emergency response
The AVMA supports the recruitment and retention of federal veterinarians to build a veterinary emergency response surge capacity.
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The importance of veterinarians in food safety
The AVMA recommends that the USDA's Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service take three actions to enhance the recruiting and retention of…
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UNDER REVIEWTransportation and processing of horses
The AVMA endorses the American Association of Equine Practitioners' policy on transportation and processing of horses.
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UNDER REVIEWVeterinary end-of-life care
Pet owners facing terminal illness in companion animals may desire veterinary end-of-life care for their pets. The animal's comfort and quality of…
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Veterinary internship guidelines
Internships should prepare veterinarians for high-quality service in practice or advanced specialty training. These guidelines establish reasonable…
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UNDER REVIEWVeterinary facility occupational risks for pregnant workers
Creating a safe work environment for all employees, including those who may be pregnant, can be facilitated by awareness of risks and adoption of…