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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…
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
Restricting ownership of wild animals
Ohio residents have received or sought permits to continue owning about 300 primates
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.
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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…
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Ownership and/or possession and appropriate disposition of wild and exotic pet species or their hybrids
The AVMA is concerned with animal welfare, husbandry, infectious diseases, public health and safety, and environmental impacts associated with…
JAVMA news
Quality-of-life assessment for exotic pets
When working with exotic pets, there are several considerations to take into account, including the animal’s environment, diet, behavior, company,…
Resources for pet owners
Keeping animals healthy requires teamwork. As an owner, you're an important part of that team.
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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…
AVMA news
Giving reptiles and amphibians the best medicine
Advances in herptile husbandry, nutrition, and medicine have greatly improved the health and welfare of pet reptiles and amphibians. And they appear…
JAVMA news
Morris awards grants for wildlife, equine research
Morris Animal Foundation announced in late September that it has awarded $850,000 in support of wildlife research through grants to
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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
VMX features second well-being study
Merck Animal Health released the results of the second Merck Animal Health Veterinarian Wellbeing Study during the 2020 Veterinary Meeting & Expo.…
Zoonotic Diseases and Pets FAQ
Animals can carry diseases that people can catch. Get answers to commonly asked questions about disease risks related to pets.
Selecting a pet ferret
Learn more about ferrets and whether a ferret is the right pet for your family.
Selecting a pet rodent
Learn about pet rodents to determine if a pet such as a rat, mouse, gerbil, hamster or guinea pig is an appropriate pet for your family.
JAVMA news
Katrina: stories from the storm
A decade has passed since Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans on Aug. 29, 2005, breaking levees and flooding much of the area.
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…
Selecting a pet rabbit
Learn about rabbits to determine if a rabbit is the right pet for your family.
Selecting a pet reptile
Reptiles may require less daily care and exercise than many other pets, but they require special skills and careful attention to diet, handling and…