JAVMA news
Horse tripping a new welfare concern
The AVMA has come out against the practice of horse tripping, which involves roping the front or hind legs of a galloping horse while on foot or…
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…
JAVMA news
Animal shelters, control officers aim to be more community-centric
Companion animal welfare and shelter leaders discuss diversity, equity, and inclusion; the eviction crisis; and implementing changes to how animal…
AVMA news
Welfare concerns for wild birds, from confiscation to relinquishment
Drs. Patricia J. Latas and Anthony A. Pilny presented sessions on July 15 at AVMA Convention 2023 in Denver about the consequences of wildlife…
JAVMA news
AVMA welfare director joins OIE panel on slaughter, depopulation
An AVMA staff member is representing North America on a panel that is drafting revisions to international standards on slaughter and emergency killing…
JAVMA news
Supporting real assistance animals
Is that cockatoo riding a man's shoulder in the produce section really an emotional support animal?
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…
AVMA news
Policies on physical restraint of animals, canine devocalization approved
The AVMA House of Delegates adopted a handful of revised animal welfare policies, including one on “Canine Devocalization” that supersedes the…
JAVMA news
AVMA emphasizes responsible stewardship of laboratory animals
The AVMA has revised the policy "Use of Animals in Research, Testing, and Education" to balance the emphasis placed on the importance of animal-based…
JAVMA news
Animal fighting legislation gets boost
The AVMA will increase efforts to promote the passage of the Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act (H.R. 1532/S. 736).
policy
UNDER REVIEWUse of electro-muscular disruption devices (EMDDs) on animals
Understand the AVMA's position on the use of electro-muscular disruption devices such as stun guns on animals.
JAVMA news
Decision to form animal pain, distress panel postponed
A decision to establish a panel on assessing and alleviating animal pain and distress has been postponed
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…
JAVMA news
HOD adopts policies on cribbing, microchipping animals
In January, the AVMA House of Delegates overwhelmingly voted to adopt a new policy on humanely managing horse cribbing and a revised policy concerning…
JAVMA news
AVMF awards $125,000 in support of animal health, human-animal bond research
The American Veterinary Medical Foundation has awarded three research grants totaling $125,000
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…
JAVMA news
Social workers turn attention to animal hoarders
Dealing with animal hoarding should be about helping the hoarders as well as the animals, according to social workers who consult on such cases.
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
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…
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…
AVMA news
Happy the elephant is latest test case for animal rights group
New York state’s appellate court recently heard oral arguments over whether a 48-year-old elephant is similar enough to a human to be considered…
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…
JAVMA news
Natural bovine behavior key to evaluating management practices
Human-animal interaction is one of the largest components of appropriate animal welfare. More than anything, the natural behaviors of animals