Animal health and welfare
Veterinarians and veterinary teams are committed to protecting the health and welfare of animals. AVMA has many tools and resources to help.
policy
AVMA guidelines for the euthanasia of animals
The AVMA guidelines for the euthanasia of animals provide veterinarians guidance in relieving pain and suffering of animals that are to be euthanized.
policy
Companion animal care guidelines
View general guidelines for the care and humane treatment of animals in nonagricultural facilities such as shelters, pet stores, boarding kennels,…
JAVMA news
Euthanatized animals can poison wildlife: Veterinarians receive fines
In 1999, a veterinarian and a rancher in Colorado were dismayed to find that they had accidentally killed five golden eagles and two bald eagles.
JAVMA news
Though not always ideal, inhalants can be an effective euthanasia method
Carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and a combination of other gases and anesthetics are used to euthanize millions of animals in laboratories, on farms,…
JAVMA news
Research delayed, rodent populations reduced during pandemic
Universities delayed new studies this spring to reduce contact among people, including researchers and animal caregivers. Those delays often involved…
AVMA news
AVMA recognizes three for work in human-animal bond and welfare
Dr. Dani McVety-Leinen received the Bustad Companion Animal Veterinarian of the Year Award, Dr. Patricia V. Turner received the AVMA Animal Welfare…
JAVMA news
Ending life well
Pending guidance on depopulation and updated guidance on euthanasia acknowledge that decisions on animal death are difficult even for experts.
JAVMA news
Member comment sought on draft guidelines for depopulation
A draft version of the first AVMA Guidelines for the Depopulation of Animals is now available for review and comment by AVMA members.
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.
JAVMA news
Groups working to identify best euthanasia, slaughter methods
The AVMA will lead a meeting looking to examine euthanasia practices across animal species and harmonize international guidance.
AVMA news
When death comes suddenly to a pet
Among the common causes of sudden unexpected death in cats and dogs are heart disease, trauma, and toxicity. Veterinarians can help grieving pet…
JAVMA news
New guidance for pets exposed to rabies
New guidance in this issue of the JAVMA advises that cats and dogs that are exposed to rabies and are overdue for a vaccine can have a booster shot…
JAVMA news
Horse racing deaths decreasing in California
Equine fatalities in California horse racing have declined 50% over the past two years, dropping from 144 to 72, reported the California Horse Racing…
JAVMA news
AVMA may change guidance for CO2 euthanasia in rodents
Pending revisions to the AVMA's euthanasia guidelines likely will instruct veterinarians to use faster flow rates when using carbon dioxide
JAVMA news
Warning added to euthanasia products
The FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine is adding an environmental warning to labels of pentobarbital-containing euthanasia
JAVMA news
AVMF fund bridges gap between owners in need, veterinary costs
Providing greater access to veterinary care for low-income pet owners remains an ongoing concern in the profession.
JAVMA news
Revision process begins for AVMA euthanasia guidelines
Efforts to update the AVMA Guidelines on Euthanasia are underway.
JAVMA news
1985 - 1995
The scientific section of JAVMA underwent a complete makeover toward the end of this decade, truly transforming its look.
JAVMA news
1995 - 2005
This decade was a time of relatively high caseloads, allowing for continued accumulation of case experience.
AVMA news
17M poultry dead in HPAI outbreaks
A highly pathogenic strain of H5N1 avian influenza has killed more than 17 million poultry in the U.S. this year. Industry veterinarians recommend…
JAVMA news
Veterinary marijuana?
Most Americans see marijuana as a legitimate medical treatment for some human disease conditions.
JAVMA news
Swine veterinarians find disease lessons in COVID-19
Swine veterinarians say the responses to COVID-19—and the vulnerabilities uncovered—will help them combat infectious diseases in swine going forward.
JAVMA news
Simulation study compares cat population reduction methods
A simulation model used in a recent study provides insights into the value of administering a temporary, nonsurgical