Animal Welfare Committee
The Animal Welfare Committee advises on issues related to animal welfare, guided by the overarching AVMA Animal Welfare Principles.
Animal welfare course syllabus
Educators can use this model syllabus as a template to meet the core competencies students need to protect animal welfare in any field of veterinary…
AVMA Animal Welfare Award
This award is given annually to an AVMA member veterinarian to recognize his/her achievements in advancing the welfare of animals.
Animal welfare assessments: Test your knowledge
Interactive quizzes test your animal welfare assessment skill - based on scenarios from the AVMA Animal Welfare Judging and Assessment Contest.
Advocating for horse welfare
The AVMA advocates on a variety of horse welfare issues. Learn about our top priorities and find out how you can help protect horses.
Welfare implications of tail docking of dogs
Peer-reviewed summary of scientific literature related to the welfare implications of amputation of part of a dog’s tail.
Updated guidelines for the humane slaughter of animals
Members are invited to review and comment on a draft revision of the AVMA Guidelines for the Humane Slaughter of Animals, which guide veterinarians in…
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…
Service, emotional support, and therapy animals
Understanding the varied roles of service, emotional support, and therapy animals helps veterinary teams provide care and advice consistent with each…
AVMA Humane Award
Nomination Form—Deadline: February 1, 2016 This award is given annually to a non-veterinarian to recognize his/her achievements in advancing the…
Comparison of cage and non-cage systems for housing laying hens
When looking at how different housing systems protect the welfare of laying hens, it's important to consider the various trade-offs inherent to every…
Human-animal bond
The human-animal bond is beneficial to the mental, physical, and social health of people and animals. Veterinarians play an important role in…
Animal-assisted interventions: Guidelines
Veterinarians must prepare themselves to play a vital role in ensuring the health and wellbeing of the people and the animals involved in human-animal…
State Advocacy Issue
Animal owners love their pets, and veterinarians love animals. But "guardian" is a legal term with significant legal implications and repercussions.
Humane slaughter
Animals deserve humane treatment during every stage of their lives – including during the induction of death,
Humane endings
Learn about veterinarians’ responsibility to animals during final life stages: end of life, human perspectives, humane killing techniques, and…
Socialization of dogs and cats
Socialization prepares dogs and cats to enjoy interactions and be comfortable with other animals, people, places and activities.
Human-Animal Bond Certification
The AVMA is founding educational partner for the Human-Animal Bond Certification Program for veterinarians and veterinary team members.
Gonadectomy resources for veterinarians
Conversations are ongoing among veterinarians about when and whether to sterilize pets, and how to balance societal interests with the benefits and…
Dogs Traveling in Truck Beds
Dogs transported unsecured in the cargo area (truck bed) of vehicles such as pickup trucks are at risk of injury if they jump or are thrown from the…
Canine tail docking FAQ
Get answers to frequently asked questions about tail docking in dogs, including: Why is it done? Is it painful? Do dogs need tails?
National Pet Week®
National Pet Week® honors the pets in our lives and promotes responsible pet ownership. Join us to celebrate pets and help give them the best lives…
Ear cropping and canine otitis externa FAQ
Get answers to frequently asked questions about ear cropping and canine otitis externa, including: Are dogs with hanging ears more likely to get ear…
Frequently asked questions about the overpopulation of wild horses and burros on federal lands
Frequently asked questions about the overpopulation of wild horses and burros on federal lands
Traveling with your pet FAQ
What to think about when deciding to travel with a pet? Can you take your pet out of the country? Specific needs for travel by plane, boat, car, train…