Policies

Surgical sterilisation of dogs and cats

Policy Surgical sterilisation is an important tool to reduce unwanted dogs and cats in the community, particularly when combined with relevant community education programs. Veterinarians should make recommendations about the […]

Animal shelters and municipal pounds

Policy Animals kept in pounds and shelters must be housed under appropriate conditions that ensure their health and welfare, meeting the animals’ physiological, behavioural and social needs. All animals must […]

Companion animals confined to vehicles

Policy A companion animal should not be confined to a parked or stationary vehicle where it is at risk of developing hyperthermia. Law enforcement officers or other individuals entrusted with […]

Companion animals in aged-care accommodation

Policy The integration of companion animals into retirement and aged-care facilities has many potential benefits. The aged care industry are encouraged to take responsibility for implementing such initiatives. Veterinarians should […]

Management of cats in Australia

Policy The management of cats in Australia must be evidence-based, must prioritise animal welfare, use practices that mitigate negative impacts to animals, and have clear measurable outcome-based objectives which are […]

Nutrition of dogs and cats

Policy The nutritional status of cats and dogs is a very important indicator of their health and welfare, and should be assessed by veterinarians as part of a holistic approach […]

Pet insurance

Position Statement Pet insurance has the potential to contribute to optimal health and welfare outcomes for Australian pets. Veterinarians play a critical role in promoting and increasing the uptake of […]

Selective breeding based on genetic testing of companion animals

Policy Selective breeding of companion animals based on genetic tests should only occur where there have been proven phenotypic outcomes which will improve an animal’s viability, conformation, health and welfare. […]

The responsible ownership of dogs and cats and the human–animal bond

Policy Dog and cat ownership is an integral part of the human- animal bond and plays an important and positive role in the health and wellbeing of the community1. Benefits […]

Acupuncture

Position Statement There is significant diversity of opinion within the veterinary profession regarding scientific evidence in support of the efficacy of veterinary acupuncture. The AVA encourages appropriately designed and conducted […]