policy
UNDER REVIEWJudicious therapeutic use of antimicrobials in aquatic animal medicine
Aquatic animal veterinarians should use all therapeutants, including antimicrobials, judiciously to restore aquatic animal health, ensure continued…
policy
Vaccination principles
Vaccines have been proven highly efficacious and beneficial to the health of veterinary patients, as well as the general public. Decisions about…
policy
Animal agriculture manure management
The AVMA supports appropriate efforts and actions to prevent negative environmental impacts from wastes generated by terrestrial or aquatic animal…
policy
Veterinary internship guidelines
Internships should prepare veterinarians for high-quality service in practice or advanced specialty training. These guidelines establish reasonable…
policy
AVMA policy on veterinary technology
The AVMA recognizes the value of veterinary technicians as an integral component of veterinary medicine and urges full utilization of veterinary…
policy
Use of horses in urban environments
The AVMA endorses the American Association of Equine Practitioners' policy on the use of horses in urban environments.
policy
UNDER REVIEWDisabled livestock
Disabled livestock must be handled humanely. View AVMA's policy on disabled livestock.
policy
Service animals
If an animal meets this definition, it is considered a service animal regardless whether it has been licensed or certified by a government or an…
policy
Principles of veterinary medical ethics of the AVMA
All veterinarians are expected to adhere to a progressive code of ethical conduct known as the Principles of Veterinary Medical Ethics.
policy
Dog bite prevention
Veterinarians have a professional and ethical obligation to address the issue of dog bites in the United States. View AVMA’s policy on dog bite…
policy
Dog and cat population management
Dog and cat population management is a complex animal welfare problem, with many contributing factors.
policy
Military veterinary treatment facilities (VTF)
Veterinary services performed by Army veterinarians are an important benefit for service members and their families, and will be provided across the…
policy
The IAHAIO Prague Declaration
The AVMA endorses the International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organizations' Prague Declaration.
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
Model bill and regulations to assure appropriate care for dogs intended for use as pets
This resource can serve as a guide for legislators and other government officials involved in developing legislation and regulations to assure…
policy
Joint AVMA-FVE-CVMA statement on the global control of dog-mediated rabies: A One Health imperative
This statement has been adopted jointly by the AVMA, Federation of Veterinarians of Europe and Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.
policy
Secure food supply plans
The AVMA recommends that federal and state regulatory authorities along with industry stakeholders continue to update, maintain and use the Secure…
policy
Genetic modification of animals in agriculture
Genetic research and the practical application of that knowledge in farm-raised* animals should be encouraged.
policy
Emotional support animals
The AVMA encourages housing providers covered by the Fair Housing Act or similar laws to ensure they understand and are fully compliant with their…
policy
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…
JAVMA news
Pet relocation guidelines reflect lessons learned
The AVMA and Association of Shelter Veterinarians in March released best practices for relocation of shelter animals programs to prevent the spread of…
policy
Disaster/Emergency pet sheltering preferences
The AVMA recommends use of the cohabitation sheltering model (sheltering as a family unit) during disasters and emergencies involving companion…
JAVMA news
Certificate in the works for veterinary first responders
To fill the gap in training at the local level for veterinary disaster response, the American Veterinary Medical Foundation board of directors voted…
JAVMA news
HOD passes resolution on workforce issues
AVMA leaders resolved to help address economic, staffing, and morale challenges in the veterinary workforce and they adjusted a series of existing…
JAVMA news
Transatlantic task force sees progress, challenges in antimicrobial stewardship
An international task force sees some progress in combating antimicrobial resistance, but the problem remains a growing threat.