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UNDER REVIEWImportation and interstate movement of wildlife, aquatic, and non-native animals
The AVMA recommends regulations governing the importation and interstate movement of wildlife, aquatic, and non-native animal species when there is…
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IAHAIO Rio Declaration on Pets in Schools
The AVMA endorses the International Association of Human-Animal Interaction Organizations' Declaration on Pets in Schools.
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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.
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Human-animal interaction and the human-animal bond
The human-animal bond is a mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between people and animals that is influenced by behaviors considered…
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Horse tripping
The AVMA opposes tripping, injuring or causing the death of horses, mules and donkeys for any entertainment purpose or during training for any…
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Healthy People 2030
The Healthy People initiative is a 10-year strategy that identifies public health objectives and tools for improving our nation's health. The AVMA is…
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Harmonized approach to voluntary and regulated aquatic animal health programs
Multiple government agencies claim jurisdiction and oversight over aquatic animal health.
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Guidelines for use of autogenous biologics
Autogenous biological products may provide veterinarians a unique opportunity for control of certain infectious diseases when USDA-licensed commercial…
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UNDER REVIEWGuidelines for addressing hazards in the workplace
It is incumbent on veterinary employers to inform all team members about job hazards that may affect their health.
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Guidelines for use of exempt biologics
State-licensed veterinarians may consider preparing biologics in their practice facility under a VCPR in unique disease situations not adequately…
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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.
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Guidelines for the humane slaughter of animals
The AVMA Guidelines for the Humane Slaughter of Animals provide guidance for veterinarians to prevent pain and distress in animals designated for…
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Guidelines for use of trainees and volunteers in veterinary practice
Unpaid training opportunities benefit both trainees and the veterinary profession, but labor laws must be followed carefully. View AVMA's guidelines…
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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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Global climate change and One Health
The AVMA encourages research and education to enhance understanding of how climate change impacts animal, human, and ecosystem health.
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Global food security
The AVMA supports the promotion of the veterinary profession’s many roles in advancing global food security. View the policy on global food security.
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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.
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Funding of the New Animal Drug Application (NADA) and Abbreviated New Animal Drug Application (ANADA) approval process
To help ensure adequate availability of veterinary drugs, the AVMA supports increased funding of the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine for the NADA…
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Free-roaming abandoned and feral cats
The AVMA encourages collaborative efforts to identify humane and effective alternatives to the destruction of healthy cats for animal control…
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Free-roaming, owned cats
The AVMA encourages veterinarians to educate clients and the public about the risks associated with allowing cats free-roam access to the outdoors.
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UNDER REVIEWForeign animal disease laboratory
The AVMA actively seeks continued adequate congressional funding for the upgrading, maintenance, operation, or rebuilding of the United States'…
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Foot and mouth disease
Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a severe, highly contagious viral disease of worldwide concern. View AVMA's recommendations for FMD preparedness and…
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Food safety
The AVMA supports appropriate educational, legislative, and regulatory measures to assure that foods of animal origin are safe and wholesome. AVMA…
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UNDER REVIEWFeral swine
The AVMA supports scientifically based regulation and/or legislation related to feral swine.
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Federal guidance on integrating animal issues into emergency issues
The AVMA strongly recommends periodic review of federal guidance on disaster preparedness, response and recovery to improve support for animal owners…