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UNDER REVIEWGlobal climate change and One Health
The AVMA encourages research and education to enhance understanding of how climate change impacts animal, human, and ecosystem health.
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Global food security
The AVMA supports the promotion of the veterinary profession’s many roles in advancing global food security. View the policy on global food security.
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Government fees and taxes on veterinary products and services
Government entities should consider the possible negative effects on human health, animal health and animal welfare that may result from fees or taxes…
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Guidelines for use of autogenous biologics
Autogenous biological products may provide veterinarians a unique opportunity for control of certain infectious diseases when USDA-licensed commercial…
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Guidelines for use of trainees and volunteers in veterinary practice
Unpaid training opportunities benefit both trainees and the veterinary profession, but labor laws must be followed carefully. View AVMA's guidelines…
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Guidelines for addressing hazards in the workplace
It is incumbent on veterinary employers to inform all team members about job hazards that may affect their health.
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Guidelines for use of exempt biologics
State-licensed veterinarians may consider preparing biologics in their practice facility under a VCPR in unique disease situations not adequately…
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Guidelines for the humane slaughter of animals
The AVMA Guidelines for the Humane Slaughter of Animals provide guidance for veterinarians to prevent pain and distress in animals designated for…
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Guidelines for responsible pet ownership
Owning a pet is a privilege and should result in a mutually beneficial relationship. However, the benefits of pet ownership come with obligations.
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Harassment and discrimination-free veterinary workplace
This guidance is intended as a starting point for AVMA member veterinarians, and not as a definitive statement of the law concerning harassment and…
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Harmonized approach to voluntary and regulated aquatic animal health programs
Multiple government agencies claim jurisdiction and oversight over aquatic animal health.
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Healthy People 2030
The Healthy People initiative is a 10-year strategy that identifies public health objectives and tools for improving our nation's health. The AVMA is…
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Horse tripping
The AVMA opposes tripping, injuring or causing the death of horses, mules and donkeys for any entertainment purpose or during training for any…
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Human-animal interaction and the human-animal bond
The human-animal bond is a mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between people and animals that is influenced by behaviors considered…
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Humane transport of equines
The AVMA supports the use of best practices when transporting animals and therefore opposes the use of double-decked trailers to transport equines.
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UNDER REVIEWIAHAIO Rio Declaration on Pets in Schools
The AVMA endorses the International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organizations' Declaration on Pets in Schools.
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Importation and interstate movement of wildlife, aquatic, and non-native animals
The AVMA recommends regulations governing the importation and interstate movement of wildlife, aquatic, and non-native animal species when there is…
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Importation of animals and animal products
Imported animals and animal products must present no more than a negligible risk to human and animal health in the United States.
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Inappropriate requests for Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration numbers
The AVMA strongly opposes the use of DEA registration numbers for any purpose other than the one for which it was intended: to provide certification…
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UNDER REVIEWInduced molting of layer chickens
Induced molting of commercial layer chickens must be a carefully monitored and controlled procedure, with special attention paid to flock health,…
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Infectious risk of animal carcasses in natural disasters
Animals that die from injuries, including massive animal deaths in cases of natural disasters, generally do not represent an infectious health hazard…
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Inherited disorders in responsible breeding of companion animals
The AVMA encourages careful consideration of the health and welfare implications of breed standards, breeding decisions, and the responsibilities…
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UNDER REVIEWIntegrated pest management
Integrated pest management (IPM) is a component of One Health, and the AVMA supports science-based integrated pest management programs and practices…
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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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Johne's disease
Johne's is a disease of significant economic importance to cattle and small ruminants.