Tips for effective letter writing to state legislators and other officials
Writing to lawmakers is one way to influence state and local laws and policy. Here are tips to write more effective letters.
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…
Why should I volunteer?
Benefits of volunteering with the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
AVMA policy from start to finish
How are policies developed at the AVMA? Who's involved in the process? Read about the pathways for AVMA policy-making, and view our flowchart.
blog
Speaking up and making our voice heard
President’s Column: Dr. John de Jong Last month, I shared with you my commitment to advocate on behalf of the veterinary profession by engaging with…
JAVMA news
AVMA addresses pet obesity, opioid abuse
The AVMA Board of Directors met June 19-20 at Association headquarters to consider an agenda that included pet obesity, the opioid abuse epidemic, and…
JAVMA news
AVMA provides background on policies
The AVMA has developed a backgrounder that clarifies the purpose of the Association’s policies and summarizes the process of policy development.
JAVMA news
Lowering hurdles of licenses
Government and veterinary leaders are trying to make it easier for professionals to keep working when they change states.
Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents
The Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents advises the Board of Directors in promoting interest in the efficacy and proper use of biologic and…
Committee on Disaster and Emergency Issues
The Committee on Disaster and Emergency Issues advises on veterinary matters related to disasters and their implications for animal health, public…
JAVMA news
Board gives guides on workplace, competition, courts
Policy changes enacted in April provide new or adjusted advice from the AVMA on work environments, competition, court-ordered compensation, and…
JAVMA news
Ohio restricting wild animal ownership
Starting in September, most Ohio residents will be unable to collect or sell wild animals that the state deems to be dangerous.
JAVMA news
Congress considers US egg production standards
United Egg Producers and the Humane Society of the United States want Congress to approve new standards for U.S. egg producers.
JAVMA news
Looking ahead
Dr. Clark K. Fobian, District VII representative to the AVMA Executive Board, will likely be elected AVMA president-elect by the AVMA House of…
Committee on Environmental Issues
The Committee on Environmental Issues advises on environmental issues that may impact animal health, public health, ecosystem health, and the…
JAVMA news
Supreme Court strikes down Calif. slaughter rules
The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously ruled in January that the state of California cannot prohibit the slaughter of pigs that become
blog
AVMA Board meets with USDA official
AVMA’s Board of Directors met with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) under secretary for marketing and regulatory programs during last…
JAVMA news
Telehealth poses new possibilities, problems
Telehealth in veterinary medicine continues to advance with greater use by corporate and private practices—and even use by the AVMA in pilot studies.
JAVMA news
What's in a name?
Two years ago, the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America formed the Veterinary Nurse Initiative coalition.
JAVMA news
Another ballot initiative increases housing size for farm animals
As consumers demand to know more about the origin of their foods, the trend toward less-restrictive housing for farm animals has accelerated in recent…
policy
Dog and cat population management
Dog and cat population management is a complex animal welfare problem, with many contributing factors.
JAVMA news
We are not your father’s AVMA
Over the past five years, AVMA Executive Vice President Ron DeHaven has been working behind the scenes with Association leaders to transform the…
JAVMA news
Cannabis research for veterinary patients advancing, cautiously
More than half the country has legalized marijuana use in one form or another.
JAVMA news
How big is Florida's python problem?
New restrictions on the constrictor-snake trade are meant to prevent a repeat of what has happened with the Burmese python in the Florida Everglades.