policy
Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies
TSEs are important diseases worldwide. The AVMA encourages research and dissemination of scientific knowledge about them; and supports surveillance,…
policy
The veterinary profession's role in addressing the opioid epidemic
AVMA strongly recommends that veterinarians, legislators, state veterinary medical boards, and state pharmacy boards work together to create practical…
policy
UNDER REVIEWFeral swine
The AVMA supports scientifically based regulation and/or legislation related to feral swine.
JAVMA news
Transatlantic task force sees progress, challenges in antimicrobial stewardship
An international task force sees some progress in combating antimicrobial resistance, but the problem remains a growing threat.
policy
WVA position statement on use of horses for production of biologics and therapeutics
The AVMA endorses this position statement developed by the World Veterinary Association (WVA) on the use of horses for production of biologics and…
policy
Use of horses in urban environments
The AVMA endorses the American Association of Equine Practitioners' policy on the use of horses in urban environments.
blog
Policies up for review: Your input needed
AVMA policy is powered by AVMA members. The review process for eight policies is starting, and the volunteer groups that conduct the review are…
policy
The veterinarian’s role in supporting appropriate selection and use of service, assistance and therapy animals
The AVMA encourages veterinarians to be familiar with the legal status and protections accorded to service, assistance, emotional support, and therapy…
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
Use of animals in research, testing, and education
Use of animals in research, testing and education is a privilege that carries unique professional, scientific and moral obligations, and ethical…
policy
Joint AVMA-FVE-CVMA statement on responsible and judicious use of antimicrobials
The AVMA, Federation of Veterinarians of Europe, and Canadian Veterinary Medical Association have jointly adopted this policy on responsible and…
JAVMA news
Certificate in the works for veterinary first responders
To fill the gap in training at the local level for veterinary disaster response, the American Veterinary Medical Foundation board of directors voted…
policy
Use of technology in veterinary medicine
The AVMA supports responsible and ethical development and use of technology that can benefit and protect public health, animal health and welfare, and…
policy
UNDER REVIEWVeterinary end-of-life care
Pet owners facing terminal illness in companion animals may desire veterinary end-of-life care for their pets. The animal's comfort and quality of…
policy
Veterinary compounding
Compounding is the customized manipulation of a drug by a veterinarian, or by a pharmacist upon the prescription of a veterinarian, to meet the needs…
policy
Creation and use of genetically modified animals as research models
Creation and use of genetically modified animals for investigating diseases affecting animals and people should not be needlessly restricted and…
policy
Support for veterinary extension and outreach services
Veterinary extension and outreach services play a vital role to protect the health and wellbeing of animals, contribute to public health, and…
policy
Joint AVMA-FVE-CVMA statement on the roles of veterinarians in promoting animal welfare
The AVMA, FVE, and CVMA recognize that sentient animals are capable of experiencing positive physical and emotional states (or feelings), including…
policy
UNDER REVIEWVeterinary involvement in marine mammal health and welfare
The AVMA encourages the use of appropriately experienced and qualified veterinarians to optimize the health and welfare of marine mammals.
policy
UNDER REVIEWExtractive industries
AVMA supports objective scientific research on extractive industries' impacts on animal health, foods of animal and plant origin, and the environment.
policy
Legislative discrimination
The AVMA cannot stand quietly when any characteristic is used as a basis of discrimination.
policy
AVMA guidelines for the depopulation of animals
The AVMA guidelines for the depopulation of animals help members of the veterinary profession make decisions that support animal welfare in emergency…
AVMA news
AVMA webinars help veterinarians navigate opioid epidemic
Three new drug-related webinars are available on demand on AVMA Axon to help veterinarians meet their state’s continuing education (CE) requirements…
AVMA news
Board updates public health policies, practitioners advisory committee charge
Earlier this year, the AVMA Board of Directors voted on changes to policies on public health matters, including tuberculosis, brucellosis, and…
blog
AVMA updates euthanasia guidance for the profession
The AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals have been updated to reflect important research advances, including new techniques and equipment.