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…
policy
UNDER REVIEWNonhuman primates as assistance animals
The AVMA does not support the use of nonhuman primates as assistance animals because of animal welfare concerns, the potential for serious injury, and…
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
Livestock identification and animal traceability
Permanent, unique identification of animals and premises is essential for tracing origin and destination of livestock to protect the nation’s…
JAVMA news
Ohio restricting wild animal ownership
Starting in September, most Ohio residents will be unable to collect or sell wild animals that the state deems to be dangerous.
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,…
JAVMA news
USDA to close inspection loophole
Large-scale breeders who sell animals over the Internet may soon be subject to federal animal welfare standards.
policy
Dog and cat population management
Dog and cat population management is a complex animal welfare problem, with many contributing factors.
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…
JAVMA news
Snapshots
Dr. M. Gatz Riddell (standing), executive vice president of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners, and Dr. Tom Burkgren (left),
JAVMA news
Congress considers US egg production standards
United Egg Producers and the Humane Society of the United States want Congress to approve new standards for U.S. egg producers.
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…
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…
JAVMA news
Cruelty investigation prompts massive recall of beef
Hallmark/Westland Meat Packing Co. of Chino, Calif., issued a recall Feb. 17 of 143 million pounds of beef as a secondary result of the U.S.…
policy
Free-roaming abandoned and feral cats
The AVMA encourages collaborative efforts to identify humane and effective alternatives to the destruction of healthy cats for animal control…
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…
JAVMA news
Action against soring intensifies
Four congressional members introduced legislation Sept. 14 that would increase civil and criminal penalties for anyone found soring a horse—that is,…
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.
JAVMA news
Sky’s the limit as AVMF heads into 50th year
Maryland practitioner Dr. Richard “Dick” P. Streett Jr., recently started his two-year term as the chair of the American Veterinary Medical Foundation
policy
UNDER REVIEWGuidelines for responsible pet ownership
Owning a pet is a privilege and should result in a mutually beneficial relationship. The benefits of pet ownership come with responsibilities.
JAVMA news
Soring criminal case garners national attention
A prominent trainer in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry pleaded guilty May 22 to a felony conviction for charges that he violated the Horse…
JAVMA news
Survey identifies barriers to pet ownership
A new survey has found that barriers to pet ownership include not only expenses and lifestyle factors but also a dislike of cats and grief over 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?
JAVMA news
Looking ahead
Dr. Clark K. Fobian, District VII representative to the AVMA Executive Board, will likely be elected AVMA president-elect by the AVMA House of…
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…