policy
AVMA animal welfare principles
The AVMA, as a medical authority for the health and welfare of animals, offers eight integrated principles for developing and evaluating animal…
blog
Important animal welfare bill approved by Congress
Following years of advocacy by the AVMA, lawmakers and animal welfare advocates, the U.S. House and Senate have unanimously approved landmark animal…
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…
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
UNDER REVIEWAnimals used in entertainment, shows, and for exhibition
The AVMA supports the humane and ethical use of animals in spectator events, shows, exhibitions, motion pictures, and television in accordance with…
policy
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,…
blog
DOT issues final rule on air travel with service animals
Strong veterinary influence is apparent in the new rule issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation related to transporting service and emotional…
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
Dog and cat population management
Dog and cat population management is a complex animal welfare problem, with many contributing factors.
blog
3 AVMA award recipients announced
Three people who have made important contributions to animal welfare, human-animal interaction, and veterinary medicine will be honored together at…
policy
Acclimation certificates/statements
Acclimation certificates/statements are used to allow airlines to ship dogs and cats when the airline cannot guarantee compliance with requirements of…
blog
Meet the winners!
Three veterinary awards announced during National Pet Week® There’s no better time than National Pet Week® to recognize accomplishments in the fields…
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…
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.
blog
Veterinary research spotlighted on the Hill
On May 13, the AVMA hosted an educational briefing for Capitol Hill staff on recognizing and managing pain in farm animals.
policy
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…
blog
AVMA, United Airlines reach agreement on veterinary health form
Update - March 8, 2018: The revised form has been posted on the United Airlines website. The AVMA, with support from AVMA PLIT, flew into action when…
blog
Farm bill delivers victory for veterinary medicine
The nation’s new farm bill creates critical programs to improve animal health and enhance the nation’s ability to prevent and respond to animal…
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
Safe non-commercial transport of pets in motor vehicles
The AVMA is committed to educating pet owners about the safety of pets in motor vehicles. AVMA encourages development of evidence-based crash testing…
policy
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.
policy
Delivery of veterinary service by not-for-profit/tax-exempt organizations
The AVMA supports the worthwhile work of veterinary not-for-profit and tax-exempt clinics and hospitals, and believes they should comply with…
blog
Learn, help, get inspired: Applications open for next Reaching UP clinic
Are you interested in learning about and serving communities with limited access to veterinary care? Veterinarians and veterinary students can do both…
policy
Free-roaming, owned cats
The AVMA encourages veterinarians to educate clients and the public about the risks associated with allowing cats free-roam access to the outdoors.
blog
One Health, wildlife see wins in federal funding
The spending package approved to fund the federal government through the remainder of fiscal year (FY) 2021 provides major wins for veterinarians.