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.
JAVMA news
Groups working to identify best euthanasia, slaughter methods
The AVMA will lead a meeting looking to examine euthanasia practices across animal species and harmonize international guidance.
JAVMA news
Unmasking the shelter dog
Now, more than ever, it’s important to understand the behavior of animals in shelters, according to the keynote speaker at the National Council on Pet…
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…
policy
Electroimmobilization of non-fish species
The AVMA does not support the use of electroimmobilization for animal restraint.
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…
JAVMA news
Though not always ideal, inhalants can be an effective euthanasia method
Carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and a combination of other gases and anesthetics are used to euthanize millions of animals in laboratories, on farms,…
JAVMA news
Humane endings
The Association hosted a symposium where best practices for euthanasia were examined and research directed at refining those practices
JAVMA news
AVMA providing guidance on handling of pet remains
The AVMA has adopted a policy and is creating educational materials to provide guidance to veterinarians on the handling of companion animal remains.
JAVMA news
Ending life well
Pending guidance on depopulation and updated guidance on euthanasia acknowledge that decisions on animal death are difficult even for experts.
JAVMA news
1985 - 1995
The scientific section of JAVMA underwent a complete makeover toward the end of this decade, truly transforming its look.
JAVMA news
Member comment sought on draft guidelines for depopulation
A draft version of the first AVMA Guidelines for the Depopulation of Animals is now available for review and comment by AVMA members.
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
Donkey skin trade
The AVMA endorses the American Association of Equine Practitioners' policy on the donkey skin trade.
JAVMA news
Legislation would protect pets of domestic violence victims
The AVMA is lending its support to bipartisan legislation that would expand federal protections to the pets of victims of domestic violence.
JAVMA news
Bain receives Bustad award for human-animal bond research
Dr. Melissa Bain has devoted her veterinary career to enhancing the human-animal bond through research on companion animal behavior problems,…
JAVMA news
Nominations open for 2020 AVMA awards
The nomination period is open for the following AVMA Excellence Awards for 2020.
blog
AVMA updates euthanasia guidance for the profession
The AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals have been updated to reflect important research advances, including new techniques and equipment.
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).
JAVMA news
Massachusetts VMA honors educator, project founders
Two veterinarians and a founder of a service dog organization were honored in October 2014 by the Massachusetts VMA.
AVMA news
Humane slaughter guidelines available for comment
Draft revisions to the AVMA Guidelines for the Humane Slaughter of Animals, which cover the humane slaughter of animals raised for food or fiber, are…
JAVMA news
Devastating flu, ongoing harm
This past spring’s highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak was the largest animal health emergency in U.S. history
JAVMA news
Revision process begins for AVMA euthanasia guidelines
Efforts to update the AVMA Guidelines on Euthanasia are underway.
policy
Trapping and steel-jawed leghold traps
The AVMA opposes the use of conventional (non-padded, non-offset) steel jawed foothold traps, also called leghold traps.
Human-Animal Bond Certification
The AVMA is founding educational partner for the Human-Animal Bond Certification Program for veterinarians and veterinary team members.