Canine distemper
Learn the signs of canine distemper and see how to protect your pet against the virus.
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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…
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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?
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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.
JAVMA news
FDA scrutinizes jerky treats linked with canine illness
The Food and Drug Administration has received more than 2,000 complaints in the past five years of illnesses in dogs following consumption of jerky…
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…
JAVMA news
AKC foundation launches Epilepsy Research Initiative
The American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation has launched the Epilepsy Research Initiative
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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…
JAVMA news
Guidelines promote preventive care
The new AAHA-AVMA Canine and Feline Preventive Healthcare Guidelines can help veterinarians improve patient care and can provide a foundation for…
Pet care
Responsible pet ownership and pet health care. Topics include preventive care, keeping pets healthy and safe, pet medications and prescriptions...
Disease risks for dogs in social settings
The following is a list of the most common diseases to which your dog(s) may be exposed at a dog gathering. There may be specific risks in your area…
General pet care - Additional resources
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about bed bugsFrequently…
Leptospirosis in dogs
Protect your pet against leptospirosis by learning about clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
JAVMA news
AVMA offers new materials for clients
The AVMA has created new Web pages and a new flier to help educate pet owners about pet care subjects.
Pet ownership
Our pets can’t speak for themselves. As owners, we take on a responsibility to advocate for them and provide the support they need to live healthy,…
JAVMA news
Model dog and cat ordinance expanded
The Council on Public Health and Regulatory Veterinary Medicine recommended additions to the Model Dog and Cat Control Ordinance.
JAVMA news
AAHA toolkits help implement guidelines
The American Animal Hospital Association offers open-access toolkits to help implement some of its guidelines.
Vaccinations
Vaccines help teach your pet’s immune system how to recognize and fight off disease-causing agents. They protect your pet against diseases and improve…
JAVMA news
Banfield finds increase in FIV, borreliosis
Infection with feline immunodeficiency virus increased 48 percent in cats from 2009-2013, according to Banfield
Run, Spot, Run!
See Spot run. Spot's having fun... or is he? Just as running isn't the sport for everyone, it's not the sport for every dog.
JAVMA news
Pet dental health campaign 2002 continues strong
Since 1995, the AVMA, American Veterinary Dental Society, and Hill's Pet Nutrition Inc. have co-sponsored Pets Need Dental Care, Too campaign
JAVMA news
Toolbox for Healthy Pets
The new Partners for Healthy Pets program offers a free online Practice Resources Toolbox to help veterinarians overcome barriers to preventive care…
JAVMA news
Opportunity
79 percent of veterinary professionals agree that there has been an industry-wide decline in pet veterinary visits