policy
Disbudding and dehorning of sheep and goats
Disbudding and dehorning sheep and goats causes pain and distress. See AVMA’s guidelines for when and by whom these procedures should be carried out.
policy
WVA position on the global climate change emergency
The AVMA has endorsed this position statement developed by the World Veterinary Association (WVA).
policy
WVA position statement on use of horses for production of biologics and therapeutics
The AVMA endorses this position statement developed by the World Veterinary Association (WVA) on the use of horses for production of biologics and…
policy
Bovine castration
Cattle castration is important to animal and human safety, reduces aggressive behavior, and improves meat quality. The veterinarian of record should…
policy
Harmonized approach to voluntary and regulated aquatic animal health programs
Multiple government agencies claim jurisdiction and oversight over aquatic animal health.
policy
Use of prescription drugs in veterinary medicine
Veterinary prescription drugs are those drugs restricted by federal law to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.
policy
Conservation of wildlife
The AVMA recognizes the vital role of wildlife in the human-animal-environment complex and that wildlife conservation is most effectively addressed…
policy
Veterinarians practicing aquatic animal medicine
Aquatic animal veterinarians in the U.S. care for animals and protect public health, diagnosing disease, performing surgery, evaluating and…
policy
Animal-assisted interventions: Definitions
Animal-assisted interventions should be governed by basic standards, monitored regularly, and staffed by appropriately trained personnel. The health…
policy
Advocating for necessary veterinary medical therapy
The AVMA supports animal care policies that allow for judicious use of safe and effective antimicrobial therapies or other medications by…
policy
Disaster/Emergency pet sheltering preferences
The AVMA recommends use of the cohabitation sheltering model (sheltering as a family unit) during disasters and emergencies involving companion…
policy
Use of technology in veterinary medicine
The AVMA supports responsible and ethical development and use of technology that can benefit and protect public health, animal health and welfare, and…
policy
UNDER REVIEWAAEP-AVMA management of Bureau of Land Management wild horses and burros
This statement has been adopted jointly by the AVMA and the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP).
policy
UNDER REVIEWAABP judicious therapeutic use of antimicrobials in cattle
The AVMA has endorsed these guidelines developed by the American Association of Bovine Practitioners.
policy
UNDER REVIEWBreeding/Transportation bans
The AVMA opposes blanket prohibitions on the breeding and transportation of animals in zoos and aquaria that may have negative consequences for the…
policy
UNDER REVIEWResearch dogs and cats adoption
The following factors should be considered when developing a research institution adoption program and determining an animal's potential for adoption.
policy
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…
policy
Donkey skin trade
The AVMA endorses the American Association of Equine Practitioners' policy on the donkey skin trade.
policy
Joint AVMA-FVE-CVMA statement on continuous monitoring of antimicrobial use and antimicrobial resistance
The AVMA, Federation of Veterinarians of Europe and Canadian Veterinary Medical Association endorse this statement on continuous monitoring of…
policy
Ownership and/or possession and appropriate disposition of wild and exotic pet species or their hybrids
The AVMA is concerned with animal welfare, husbandry, infectious diseases, public health and safety, and environmental impacts associated with…
policy
Antimicrobial stewardship definition and core principles
These principles can be used to develop antimicrobial stewardship plans in any veterinary practice setting.
policy
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…
policy
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…
policy
Genetic modification of animals in agriculture
Genetic research and the practical application of that knowledge in farm-raised* animals should be encouraged.
policy
Aquatic veterinary practice in U.S. waters outside state jurisdiction
Licensed, federally accredited veterinarians must be used in aquaculture systems within U.S. waters outside of state jurisdiction. Criteria for…