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…
policy
Human-animal interaction and the human-animal bond
The human-animal bond is a mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between people and animals that is influenced by behaviors considered…
policy
Bovine castration
Cattle castration is important to animal and human safety, reduces aggressive behavior, and improves meat quality. The veterinarian of record should…
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…
JAVMA news
EPA asks for comment on upcoming survey on unused pharmaceutical disposal
The Environmental Protection Agency is seeking comment on a survey it plans to conduct on disposal methods of unused pharmaceuticals by
JAVMA news
Veterinarians, public health professionals break down silos
Symposium fuels collaboration between veterinary colleges, public health schools
JAVMA news
Center for Animal Health in Appalachia created
Lincoln Memorial University College of Veterinary Medicine in Harrogate, Tennessee, has formed the Center for Animal Health in Appalachia.
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.
National Dog Bite Prevention Week: Promoting peaceful coexistence with our canine companions
Most dogs coexist peacefully with people, but dog bites remain a serious public health risk. National Dog Bite Prevention Week is April 9-15.
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.
policy
AAHA-AVMA canine preventive healthcare guidelines
All dogs should have a veterinary examination at least annually. For many dogs, more frequent visits may be appropriate.
policy
AAHA-AVMA feline preventive healthcare guidelines
All cats should have a veterinary examination at least annually. For many cats, more frequent visits may be appropriate. The AVMA and the American…
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
Declawing of domestic cats
The AVMA discourages elective declawing of cats and supports non-surgical alternatives, respecting the veterinarian’s right to use professional…
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…
policy
UNDER REVIEWVeal calf management
The AVMA supports modern veal calf production practices that meet the welfare and health needs of calves. View the policy on veal calf management.
JAVMA news
Volunteer for Our Oath in Action projects
The American Veterinary Medical Foundation is seeking volunteers this fall for Our Oath in Action, a veterinary outreach program with projects across…
policy
Livestock handling tools
Mechanical aids to direct livestock movement should be used properly and should be secondary to good facility design and understanding the specific…