Why breed-specific legislation is not the answer
Breed-specific legislation may look good on the surface, but it’s not a reliable or effective solution for dog bite prevention.
policy
Model bill and regulations to assure appropriate care for dogs intended for use as pets
This resource can serve as a guide for legislators and other government officials involved in developing legislation and regulations to assure…
JAVMA news
Report summarizes new state laws and regulations in 2007
State governments adopted or considered a variety of measures during 2007 in areas that affect veterinarians—such as animal
AVMA news
VCPR requirements fuel state legislative activity
The issue of whether to establish a veterinarian-client-patient-relationship (VCPR) through an in-person examination or solely electronic means has…
blog
AVMA endorses federal legislation to address illicit xylazine
The bill would equip law enforcement with additional tools to stop illegal xylazine trafficking while protecting veterinarians’ access to this…
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…
JAVMA news
AVMA: Mandatory spay/neuter a bad idea
The Animal Welfare Committee recommended the changes to the policy, which reads, in part, as follows: "The AVMA does not support regulations or…
blog
Prescription mandates: new bill, same problems
For several consecutive congressional sessions, the AVMA has led the charge to defeat legislation that would require veterinarians to provide written…
resource
AVMA request: Commenting deadline for compounding
JAVMA news
Bill aims to improve dog importation process
Legislation recently introduced by the three veterinarians in Congress would give new tools and authority to the federal government to monitor and…
Backyard Poultry: Know the Legalities Regarding Treatment Options
Even if a goose, chicken or other poultry is kept as a pet, it is classified and regulated as a food animal species by the FDA.
JAVMA news
Laws take aim at wildlife pets
On June 2, Minnesota became the latest state to prohibit residents from possessing dangerous wild animals as pets.
JAVMA news
The dangerous dog debate
Communities have been banning or strictly regulating pit bull-type dogs and other “dangerous” breeds for the past three decades.
blog
Here’s one promising approach to address rural veterinary shortages
There are veterinarians who want to work in rural areas of America but are unable to do so—for financial reasons. The great news is that legislation…
policy
Aquatic ecosystems
The AVMA recognizes the pressing need to ensure the future health of aquatic animals and the ecosystems that support them. Veterinarians can and…
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…
Animal health advocacy
The AVMA’s advocacy work provides critical support for the work veterinary teams do every day to protect, promote, and advance animal health. Learn…
JAVMA news
International joint statements address horse slaughter, rabies in dogs
The AVMA has adopted a joint statement on horse slaughter with the Canadian and Mexican veterinary associations and a joint statement on rabies in…
policy
AVMA animal welfare principles
The AVMA, as a medical authority for the health and welfare of animals, offers eight integrated principles for developing and evaluating animal…
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…
JAVMA news
California city's ban on declawing struck down
Veterinary medicine in California recently scored a major victory when a state court struck down a city ordinance banning the surgical procedure of…
JAVMA news
AVMA addresses animal abuse, research cats and dogs, outdoor housing of pets
The AVMA Board of Directors, while meeting April 11-13, revised guidance for veterinarians on responding to animal abuse or neglect, approved a policy…
JAVMA news
Georgia alumni recognized for contributions
The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine recently recognized five alumni for service to the college and the veterinary profession.
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.
blog
Veterinarian-sponsored dog importation bill introduced in Congress
This week, the Healthy Dog Importation Act was introduced in Congress to ensure that all dogs entering the country are healthy and not at risk to…