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…
AVMA news
Treating anxiety to prevent canine aggression
Anxiety-reducing drugs are an often-overlooked tool that can help prevent aggression in dogs.
JAVMA news
AAHA releases new canine and feline behavior guidelines
​The American Animal Hospital Association has released the new AAHA Canine and Feline Behavior Management Guidelines to offer tools for veterinary…
Circovirus in Dogs FAQ
This page answers pet owners' common questions about the recently discovered canine circovirus and its possible role in disease in dogs.
AVMA news
Pet behavior lessons learned during the pandemic
A flood of cases of canine separation anxiety and a rash of unsocialized pandemic puppies were among the dire predictions about the impacts of the…
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.
JAVMA news
In Short
A recent study looked at the reliability and validity of behavior evaluations for dogs in animal shelters.
JAVMA news
Disease-associated gene variants widespread across dog breeds
Genetic panel testing has found that mutations or markers associated with disorders in certain dog breeds also occur in other breeds
JAVMA news
VMX 2019 takes on timely topics
Osteoarthritis in overweight pets, the psychosocial effects of service dogs, and the Fear Free Certification Program were among the many subjects of…
JAVMA news
Unlocking the genetic secrets of your dog
Want to know what mix of breeds your dog is? Want to know which hereditary disorders your mixed-breed or purebred dog is at risk for or
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…
Circovirus Infections in Dogs: Guidance for Veterinarians
This page provides veterinarians with updates on the status of the newly discovered circovirus in dogs.
JAVMA news
Leading AAHA in a time of change
Dr. McConnell assumed the office of AAHA president during the association’s annual meeting, March 31-April 2.
JAVMA news
Behavior specialty marks 25th year
When the AVMA granted specialty status to the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists 25 years ago, it was a signal to the profession and public…
JAVMA news
Snack bags pose suffocation risk to pets
Few people think a snack bag could suffocate a dog or a cat, until the unthinkable occurs.
JAVMA news
Inside the headquarters for military dogs
Lackland Air Force Base breeds and trains dogs for the U.S. Department of Defense, and serves as hub for veterinary care
JAVMA news
Feline development, from kitten kindergarten onward
Cats do a lot of great stuff but also not great stuff, which is confusing and frustrating for owners. Therefore, veterinarians need to help owners…
JAVMA news
Pain points
The new Feline Grimace Scale is one of various tools that have been developed in recent years for pain assessment in cats and dogs. The key is…
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
ER docs shortage turns critical
Two organizations that serve emergency and critical care veterinarians are trying to quantify the problem