policy
UNDER REVIEWWildlife-livestock interactions
The AVMA supports use of science-based evidence and peer-reviewed research to direct wildlife-livestock management policies, and funding to research…
policy
UNDER REVIEWGovernment fees and taxes on veterinary products and services
Government entities should consider the possible negative effects on human health, animal health and animal welfare that may result from fees or taxes…
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UNDER REVIEWLayer hen housing systems
Laying hen housing systems must provide feed, water, light, air quality, space, and sanitation that promote good health and welfare for the hens.
policy
UNDER REVIEWDisabled livestock
Disabled livestock must be handled humanely. View AVMA's policy on disabled livestock.
policy
UNDER REVIEWRelocation of pets for adoption
Careful planning is needed to ensure animal welfare, animal/human safety, and avoid disease spread when dogs and cats are transported for purposes of…
policy
UNDER REVIEWAnimals used in entertainment, shows, and for exhibition
The AVMA supports the humane and ethical use of animals in spectator events, shows, exhibitions, motion pictures, and television in accordance with…
policy
UNDER REVIEWVeal calf management
The AVMA supports modern veal calf production practices that meet the welfare and health needs of calves. View the policy on veal calf management.
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 REVIEWPet health insurance
The AVMA endorses the concept of pet health insurance that provides coverage to help defray the cost of veterinary care and encourages veterinary…
policy
UNDER REVIEWBreeding/Transportation bans
The AVMA opposes blanket prohibitions on the breeding and transportation of animals in zoos and aquaria that may have negative consequences for the…
policy
American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) judicious use of antimicrobials guidelines
The AVMA has endorsed these antimicrobial stewardship guidelines developed by the American Association of Equine Practitioners.
policy
Vaccination principles
Vaccines have been proven highly efficacious and beneficial to the health of veterinary patients, as well as the general public. Decisions about…
policy
Aminoglycoside use in cattle and small ruminants
The AVMA does not support extralabel use of aminoglycosides in cattle or small ruminants due to the substantial risk for violative residues in food…
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Relationship of AVMA-recognized veterinary specialty organizations with veterinary specialty organizations in other parts of the world
Contact and collaboration with veterinary specialists and organizations outside North America will lead to improvements in animal health worldwide.
policy
Tail alteration in horses
The AVMA endorses this American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) policy on Tail Alteration in Horses.
policy
Antiparasitic resistance
The AVMA strongly recommends that veterinarians in concert with clients use the most up-to-date guidelines, treatments, and evidence-based medicine…
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Genetic modification of animals in agriculture
Genetic research and the practical application of that knowledge in farm-raised* animals should be encouraged.
policy
AAHA-AVMA feline preventive healthcare guidelines
All cats should have a veterinary examination at least annually. For many cats, more frequent visits may be appropriate. The AVMA and the American…
policy
AVMA guidelines for horse show veterinarians
See areas of veterinary responsibility and guidelines on the conduct of horse show veterinarians.
policy
Humane transport of equines
The AVMA supports the use of best practices when transporting animals and therefore opposes the use of double-decked trailers to transport equines.
policy
Livestock identification and animal traceability
Permanent, unique identification of animals and premises is essential for tracing origin and destination of livestock to protect the nation’s…
policy
Management of mares used in the pregnant mare urine (PMU) collection industry
The AVMA endorses the American Association of Equine Practitioners' position statement on Management of Mares Used in the Pregnant Mare Urine…
policy
National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) funding
The AVMA advocates for funding to develop and maintain infrastructure for a comprehensive National Animal Health Laboratory Network so that the U.S.…
policy
Therapeutic medications in racehorses
Health care decisions for individual horses are the responsibility of the veterinarian, trainer, and owner and must have the best interests of the…
policy
Therapeutic medications in competition equids
The AVMA condemns the administration of non-therapeutic or unprescribed medications to competition equids. Health care decisions regarding individual…