Periodically, the American Veterinary Medical Association’s policies are up for review and veterinarians have the opportunity to comment on these policies. We would love to hear your feedback on the AVMA’s policies so we can integrate your comments when we submit our commentary. Few veterinarians comment on these policies so it is a great opportunity to allow our perspectives to be heard.

Please have a look at other comments Our Honor veterinarians have sent to the AVMA regarding their policies.

• Food Safety Policy Comment by Dr. Crystal Heath

• Food Safety Policy Comment by Dr. Gwendolen Reyes-Illg

AVMA animal welfare principles

(Link to the AVMA’s animal welfare principles policy)

The AVMA, as a medical authority for the health and welfare of animals, offers the following eight integrated principles for developing and evaluating animal welfare policies, resolutions, and actions.

• The responsible use of animals for human purposes, such as companionship, food, fiber, recreation, work, education, exhibition, and research conducted for the benefit of both humans and animals, is consistent with the Veterinarian's Oath.

• Decisions regarding animal care, use, and welfare shall be made by balancing scientific knowledge and professional judgment with consideration of ethical and societal values.

• Animals must be provided water, food, proper handling, health care, and an environment appropriate to their care and use, with thoughtful consideration for their species-typical biology and behavior.

• Animals should be cared for in ways that minimize fear, pain, stress, and suffering.

• Procedures related to animal housing, management, care, and use should be continuously evaluated, and when indicated, refined or replaced.

• Conservation and management of animal populations should be humane, socially responsible, and scientifically prudent.

• Animals shall be treated with respect and dignity throughout their lives and, when necessary, provided a humane death.

• The veterinary profession shall continually strive to improve animal health and welfare through scientific research, education, collaboration, advocacy, and the development of legislation and regulations.