policy
UNDER REVIEWAnimal abuse and animal neglect
Veterinarians may observe cases of suspected animal abuse or neglect. The AVMA encourages state legislation that supports veterinarians who report…
JAVMA news
AVMA endorses guidance for vets suspecting animal abuse
The AVMA has endorsed a document created jointly by the AVMA Committee on the Human-Animal Bond and the American Humane Association for veterinarians…
JAVMA news
AVMA addresses animal abuse, research cats and dogs, outdoor housing of pets
The AVMA Board of Directors, while meeting April 11-13, revised guidance for veterinarians on responding to animal abuse or neglect, approved a policy…
Responding to suspected cases of animal cruelty
As veterinary professionals, it is our responsibility to act if we suspect a case of animal abuse or cruelty. These resources will help you and your…
policy
Animal fighting
The AVMA condemns fighting events involving animals in which injury or death is intended, and recommends that animal fighting be considered a felony…
JAVMA news
Companion animal bill withdrawn
Controversial legislation proposing to elevate the status of pets from property to companions in Colorado was withdrawn shortly
JAVMA news
'Animals helping people; people helping animals' Delta Society to explore influence of animals on human health
Delta Society to explore influence of animals on human health
JAVMA news
South Dakota is last state to make animal cruelty a felony
On March 14, the governor of South Dakota signed a bill to amend the state’s law on animal cruelty, including designating some violations as class 6…
JAVMA news
Future of animal welfare intertwined with veterinary profession
Some current trends in animal welfare he outlined are as follows:
JAVMA news
Poll finds Americans cool toward animal rights
A Gallup poll found that most Americans aren't willing to fundamentally change their views about animals.
JAVMA news
Advocates for animal welfare, human-animal bond honored
The AVMA recently honored three individuals for their continuing efforts to advance animal health and welfare and protect the human-animal bond.
JAVMA news
AVMA to deliberate on assistance animals, stem cells
Service, emotional support, and therapy animals provide therapeutic interventions and assist individuals with disabilities but the growing number of…
JAVMA news
Re-homing or retiring animals for a new life after research
For about 18 years, Dr. Lara Helwig has been re-homing animals used in research, currently as director of Bio Med Animal Care at Brown University and…
JAVMA news
A safety net for struggling pet owners
Many animal shelters and humane organizations offer programs to prevent pet relinquishment for individuals and families experiencing domestic…
JAVMA news
State legislators oppose animal guardianship, noneconomic damages laws
The Council of State Governments recently adopted a policy opposing animal guardianship
JAVMA news
Banfield Foundation commits $1M to domestic violence programs
The Banfield Foundation announced that it has committed to investing $1 million over four years through its Safer Together initiative to raise…
blog
Comments sought: New rules proposed for transporting assistance animals
The DOT released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) related to transporting service and emotional support animals under the Air Carrier Access Act…
JAVMA news
When domestic violence arrives at the clinic door
Veterinarians and other practice staff members have the potential to play a life-saving role in the prevention of and response to domestic violence.
JAVMA news
Report shows need for more pet-friendly domestic violence shelters
Fear for the welfare of pets is a barrier that keeps domestic violence survivors from leaving abusive situations, according to a 2021 report from the…
JAVMA news
The human-animal bond: A legal liability for veterinarians?
Civil and criminal codes pertaining to animals are evolving.
JAVMA news
Legislation would protect pets of domestic violence victims
The AVMA is lending its support to bipartisan legislation that would expand federal protections to the pets of victims of domestic violence.
JAVMA news
Addressing human needs
Counseling of pet owners is one of several areas where the field of social work, which addresses human needs, increasingly is intersecting with the…
JAVMA news
Model practice act goes before HOD again
The AVMA House of Delegates will consider revisions to the AVMA Model Veterinary Practice Act and two policies on antimicrobials during its regular…
JAVMA news
Shelter for pets of domestic violence victims expands
I love the PALS model, said Staci Columbo Alonso about the People and Animals Living Safely shelter program
Veterinarians and One Health
Whether as clinical practitioners, epidemiologists, or ecological experts, veterinarians are essential to protecting the health and safety of animals,…