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,…
U.S. pet ownership statistics
See numbers of pets, pet-owning households, veterinary visits, and veterinary expenditures in the United States.
policy
UNDER REVIEWGuidelines for responsible pet ownership
Owning a pet is a privilege and should result in a mutually beneficial relationship. The benefits of pet ownership come with responsibilities.
JAVMA news
Survey identifies barriers to pet ownership
A new survey has found that barriers to pet ownership include not only expenses and lifestyle factors but also a dislike of cats and grief over the…
JAVMA news
AVMA offers posters on responsible pet ownership
The AVMA has created educational posters with messages from the new AVMA Guidelines for Responsible Pet Ownership.
State Advocacy Issue
Animal owners love their pets, and veterinarians love animals. But "guardian" is a legal term with significant legal implications and repercussions.
Pet care
Responsible pet ownership and pet health care. Topics include preventive care, keeping pets healthy and safe, pet medications and prescriptions...
7 Things you can do to keep your pet healthy
Weight management, exercise, regular veterinary exams, vaccination, and parasite prevention are among the most important ways to keep a pet healthy
JAVMA news
The ups and downs of pet demographics
Results of the AVMA’s 2012 study of pet ownership, veterinary visits, and spending in 2011 were an interesting mixed bag,
policy
UNDER REVIEWPets in senior, disabled, and multifamily public housing
The AVMA supports legislation to provide for ownership of pets in public and assisted housing for the elderly and disabled families, and in…
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
Auxiliary promotes pet health for National Pet Week
"Healthy Pets Make Happy Homes" is the message that the Auxiliary to the AVMA will be spreading for National Pet Week 2012, May 6-12.
Pets and disasters
Be prepared to take care of pets and other animals, especially during disasters such as fire, flood, or other emergencies.
Zoonotic Diseases and Pets FAQ
Animals can carry diseases that people can catch. Get answers to commonly asked questions about disease risks related to pets.
JAVMA news
Jazz up for National Pet Week
The Auxiliary to the AVMA will celebrate the 2008 National Pet Week, May 4-10.
JAVMA news
AVMA testifies against keeping primates as pets
The House Committee on Natural Resources' Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife, and Oceans held a hearing March 11 on the Captive Primate Safety Act…
Traveling with your pet FAQ
What to think about when deciding to travel with a pet? Can you take your pet out of the country? Specific needs for travel by plane, boat, car, train…
JAVMA news
Just the stats
Among couples without children, pet ownership is still highest among young couples—those whose household head is younger than 45
JAVMA news
Wildlife policies stress education, captivity requirements
In June, the AVMA began more strongly encouraging education for those who would privately own potentially dangerous wildlife as well as endorsing…
JAVMA news
Educational DVD promotes rabies prevention
The AVMA and the Global Alliance for Rabies Control have produced an educational DVD to promote rabies
JAVMA news
Pediatrics article says veterinarians influence children's health
Exotic pets pose risks to young children's health, but veterinarians can help parents improve safety
JAVMA news
Slaughter plant briefly shut down on handling allegations
Federal authorities temporarily halted inspections at a California slaughterhouse where workers were accused of inhumanely
JAVMA news
Human-animal bond boosts spending on veterinary care
Most people consider their pets to be family members or companions, and spending on veterinary care has increased. Yet, veterinary visits per pet have…
Spanish-language resources
Vea esta página en español The American Veterinary Medical Association has many items available for you to view, print and download for free in…
JAVMA news
Summit produces plan to remedy deficiencies in the care of cats
The recent CATalyst Summit on feline health has resulted in a plan to improve feline veterinary care, increase responsible pet