Animal health and welfare
Veterinarians and veterinary teams are committed to protecting the health and welfare of animals. AVMA has many tools and resources to help.
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…
blog
Important animal welfare bill approved by Congress
Following years of advocacy by the AVMA, lawmakers and animal welfare advocates, the U.S. House and Senate have unanimously approved landmark animal…
JAVMA news
Welfare of animals integral part of professional rodeos
Welfare of animals integral part of professional rodeos Rodeos are an opportunity for cowboys to showcase their…
JAVMA news
Animal welfare, health policies updated
Animals used in pre-college education should not be subjected to uses that cause any pain, an updated AVMA policy states.
JAVMA news
OIE tracks COVID-19 threats to animal welfare
The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) is examining how misunderstandings surrounding COVID-19 may have compromised animal welfare during the…
JAVMA news
House ag chair on animal ID, livestock welfare
For the past decade, Collin Peterson has represented Minnesota's 7th Congressional District.
AVMA news
USDA finalizes standards to include birds under Animal Welfare Act
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is establishing welfare standards for birds, which were previously…
JAVMA news
Welfare guidelines released for working equids
The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) has adopted the first set of global standards for ensuring the welfare of working equids.
Advocating for horse welfare
The AVMA advocates on a variety of horse welfare issues. Learn about our top priorities and find out how you can help protect horses.
JAVMA news
APHIS to define animal pain, distress
The USDA-APHIS is considering several changes to the Animal Welfare regulations to promote the humane treatment of live animals
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…
JAVMA news
Raising contented cattle makes welfare, production sense
Raising contented cattle makes welfare, production sense "Milking the Golden Cow-Her Comfort" was…
policy
AVMA guidelines for the depopulation of animals
The AVMA guidelines for the depopulation of animals help members of the veterinary profession make decisions that support animal welfare in emergency…
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…
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…
JAVMA news
The responsibility to laboratory animals
posted on December 1, 2001 A V M A A N I M A L W E L F A R E F O R U M The responsibility to laboratory animals Picture a rat…
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
Supporting real assistance animals
Is that cockatoo riding a man's shoulder in the produce section really an emotional support animal?
policy
Approval and availability of antimicrobials for use in food-producing animals
The availability and effectiveness of antimicrobials, including medically important antimicrobials, are important to support the health and welfare of…
SARS-CoV-2 in animals
Learn about how the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 affects animals, and how to keep pets safe during the pandemic.
Animal carcass disposal
Determine the best means of disposal for animal carcasses, tissues, and body parts.
JAVMA news
Lawmakers tackle animal hoarding
Lawmakers tackle animal hoarding States look to new laws to address animal hoarders When more than 562…
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…