JAVMA news
Setting the stage for owners when senior pets develop behavior problems
Caring for geriatric pets can be challenging and at times frustrating for their owners. Pets can exhibit behavioral problems that impair the…
JAVMA news
Study links skin allergies in dogs to problem behaviors
Research supports calls for treatment of dermatoses in dogs and other animals, including management of environmental stressors
JAVMA news
Veterinary behaviorists: No role for aversive dog training practices
Reward-based dog training offers the most advantages and least harm to the learner’s welfare, according to the American Veterinary Society of Animal…
JAVMA news
AVSAB adopts position paper on breed-specific legislation
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior has expressed concern about breed-specific legislation through a position paper.
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
Simulation study compares cat population reduction methods
A simulation model used in a recent study provides insights into the value of administering a temporary, nonsurgical
Continuing education: Gonadectomy in dogs and cats
Online veterinary CE credit: The science of gonadectomy affects theriogenology, shelter and internal medicine, behavior, surgery, oncology, private…
JAVMA news
AVMA, United reach agreement on form for assistance animals
The AVMA, with support from the AVMA PLIT, took action when United Airlines announced a new policy requiring a veterinarian's signature vouching for…
AVMA news
Done with Dog Daddy
Dog trainers that use aversive training methods, including Augusto DeOliveira, also known as "The Dog Daddy," have caught the attention of concerned…
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…
policy
Inherited disorders in responsible breeding of companion animals
The AVMA encourages careful consideration of the health and welfare implications of breed standards, breeding decisions, and the responsibilities…
policy
Removal or reduction of teeth in nonhuman primates and carnivores
The AVMA opposes removal or reduction of healthy teeth in nonhuman primates and carnivores, except when required for medical treatment or approved…
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.
JAVMA news
Creating cat-friendly practices, homes, and shelters
The American Association of Feline Practitioners is trying to make the world a friendlier and healthier place for cats.
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…
policy
Free-roaming, owned cats
The AVMA encourages veterinarians to educate clients and the public about the risks associated with allowing cats free-roam access to the outdoors.
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…
policy
Physical restraint of animals
Humane and safe handling may include using manual or mechanical means to limit some or all of an animal's normal voluntary movement for the purposes…
policy
Dog and cat population management
Dog and cat population management is a complex animal welfare problem, with many contributing factors.
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…
policy
Pain in animals
Drugs, techniques, or husbandry methods should be used to prevent, minimize, and relieve pain in animals.
policy
Declawing of domestic cats
The AVMA discourages elective declawing of cats and supports non-surgical alternatives, respecting the veterinarian’s right to use professional…
JAVMA news
More than 1M households re-home cats, dogs annually
More than 1 million U.S. households re-home cats or dogs annually, according to a new study.
policy
UNDER REVIEWLayer hen housing systems
Laying hen housing systems must provide feed, water, light, air quality, space, and sanitation that promote good health and welfare for the hens.
policy
Management of cribbing in horses
The AVMA condemns the use of hog rings or other devices placed around the teeth to prevent cribbing in horses and encourages research to understand…