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…
JAVMA news
Evolution in cattle welfare
Veterinarians and cattle owners indicated gradual changes in agriculture are improving cattle welfare, despite resistance to change among some…
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
Production practices not justified by productivity
Dr. Jennifer Walker said public trust in farmers can be supported by, but not based on, science and economics.
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…
policy
Docking of lambs' tails
Lambs' tails may be docked for cleanliness and to minimize fly strike. AVMA opposes excessively short tail docking, which is unacceptable for sheep…
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…
JAVMA news
Million Cat Challenge aims to rescue shelter cats
Two shelter medicine programs have launched the Million Cat Challenge to reduce the loss of life among cats in North American animal shelters over…
JAVMA news
AVMA issues guidance on humane slaughter
The AVMA will soon release the second in a three-part series of recommendations for killing animals humanely.
policy
Tail docking of cattle
The AVMA opposes routine tail docking of cattle. Current scientific literature indicates it provides no benefit to the animal, and it may cause…
JAVMA news
Recognized for excellence
During the AVMA Annual Convention this July in Boston, the AVMA gave awards to a number of individuals and two organizations to recognize excellence…
JAVMA news
Genetics and analgesics added to castration, dehorning policy
The AVMA Executive Board approved revisions to the AVMA policy on cattle castration and dehorning that account for genetic
policy
UNDER REVIEWPregnant sow housing
Pregnant sows are kept in a variety of housing systems. View the AVMA's recommendations for sow housing and management systems.
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
World Veterinary Day to focus on vector-borne zoonoses
World Veterinary Day to focus on vector-borne zoonoses with zoonotic potential.
JAVMA news
It doesn’t have to hurt
The ethics of animal treatment and veterinary care have changed dramatically over the past several decades.
JAVMA news
International joint statements address horse slaughter, rabies in dogs
The AVMA has adopted a joint statement on horse slaughter with the Canadian and Mexican veterinary associations and a joint statement on rabies in…
policy
Bovine disbudding and dehorning
Disbudding and dehorning of cattle are important for human and animal safety, although they are procedures that cause pain and discomfort. AVMA…