policy
Canine hybrids
The AVMA strongly opposes keeping as pets any hybrids of wild canines crossbred with domestic animals. The AVMA believes that commercial traffic in…
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…
Canine tail docking FAQ
Get answers to frequently asked questions about tail docking in dogs, including: Why is it done? Is it painful? Do dogs need tails?
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.
Ear cropping and canine otitis externa FAQ
Get answers to frequently asked questions about ear cropping and canine otitis externa, including: Are dogs with hanging ears more likely to get ear…
Canine infectious respiratory disease complex (Kennel cough)
Learn the signs of canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), or “kennel cough,” and how to protect your pet from this highly contagious…
Common-sense measures to protect your dog, yourself and others in canine social settings
Consult your veterinarian about the best preventive program for your dog(s), including vaccinations, heartworm prevention and parasite prevention…
policy
Ear cropping and tail docking of dogs
The AVMA opposes canine ear cropping and tail docking when done solely for cosmetic purposes, and encourages eliminating ear cropping and tail docking…
Gonadectomy resources for veterinarians
Conversations are ongoing among veterinarians about when and whether to sterilize pets, and how to balance societal interests with the benefits and…
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…
A Community Approach to Dog Bite Prevention (abstract)
A Model Community Approach to Dog Bite Prevention(abst) in proceedings 140th Annual ConventionAmerican Veterinary Medical AssociationJune 2001Gail C.…
Dog bite risk and prevention: The role of breed
Peer-reviewed summary of scientific literature related to the role of breed in dog bite risk and prevention.
Obesity: A toolkit for veterinarians
Get practical tools to teach companion-animal and equine clients about obesity, and enlist them as partners in reducing their animals' weight.
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…
Salmonella: Dry pet foods and pet treats (FAQ)
Questions/answers about Salmonella and pet food: How can pet food become contaminated? How can humans and pets become infected? How can you minimize…
Disease Risks for People at Dog Social Events
People attending dog social events can be at risk of zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that spread from animals to people. Some of these diseases…
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…