Policies

Use of animals in petting zoos and other displays

Policy Veterinarians and medical practitioners must be involved in the planning and implementation of animal health and welfare standards and biosecurity protocols whenever human and animal interaction is to occur […]

Welfare of cetaceans in captivity

Policy Cetaceans should not be kept in captivity unless it can be demonstrated that their husbandry, welfare and health requirements can be met. Background The welfare of captive cetaceans is […]

Welfare of animals in zoos, aquaria, sanctuaries, and animal parks

Purpose The purpose of this policy is to provide member guidance and information to the public on the importance of animal welfare in zoos, aquaria, sanctuaries, and animal parks. Policy […]

Genetic defects in domestic animals

Policy Animals with known genetic defects that have the potential to adversely affect their welfare or that of their progeny must not be used for breeding, other than in exceptional […]

Guidelines for the tethering of animals

Position statement Tethering is a temporary method of restraint and is not suitable for long-term confinement. Tethering of animals requires a high standard of animal husbandry and exceptional care, including […]

Organic livestock farming

Policy The health and welfare of individual animals must always override maintenance of organic status, and animals must receive appropriate veterinary treatment where indicated. Veterinarians should be involved in the […]

The role of veterinarians in emergency animal management

Policy Suitably experienced veterinarians must be engaged by governments and relevant agencies in the development and implementation of emergency preparedness, response and recovery plans, to optimise animal and human health […]

Engagement of private veterinary practitioners in national disease surveillance

Policy Private veterinary practices in Australia are a major potential source of surveillance data for diseases of terrestrial and aquatic livestock, wildlife and companion animals. Governments should adequately resource relevant […]

Use of euthanasia drugs by non-veterinarians

Policy Pentobarbitone or similar drugs registered for the euthanasia of animals should only be administered by a registered veterinarian. Veterinarians should not supply euthanasia drugs. Background Legislation in some jurisdictions […]

Artificial breeding of horses and related species

Policy Artificial breeding techniques are viable options for propagation of horses and related species. Background Artificial insemination using fresh, chilled or frozen semen and embryo transfer have been used in […]