Policies

Embryo collection and embryo transfer

Policy Embryo collection and embryo transfer in animals should only be conducted by registered, appropriately trained, veterinarians or persons under the direct and immediate supervision of a registered veterinarian. Background […]

Pain and analgesia

Policy Pain in animals must be prevented, relieved and managed whenever possible. Euthanasia is indicated where an animal is suffering, or is likely to suffer, intractable pain, where treatment is […]

Surgical alteration of companion animals’ natural functions for human convenience

Policy Surgical procedures performed on companion animals primarily to provide a convenience or benefit to humans are not supported or recommended. The welfare of animals is paramount, so the risks […]

Use of analgesia for routine husbandry procedures

Policy Appropriate and effective analgesia during potentially painful livestock husbandry procedures must be used and promoted. Protocols should be available for operators to appropriately and safely use analgesics during painful […]

Use of projectile syringe equipment and other remote delivery devices

Policy Systems for the remote delivery of drugs to livestock, wild animals, zoo animals or companion animals can be used safely and humanely, provided that the people involved in the […]

Dentistry in non-traditional companion animals

Purpose The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance for veterinarians managing dental health in non-traditional companion species. Policy Non-traditional companion species with teeth require regular veterinary assessment of […]

Feeding of live mammals to snakes

Policy The feeding of live mammals to snakes is strongly opposed. Background Although the feeding of live mammalian prey to snakes occurs in herpetoculture, the AVA considers that the welfare […]

Feeding rabbits and guinea pigs

Policy Rabbits and guinea pigs must be fed a predominantly grass hay and/or grass diet, to ensure proper wear of their dentition, to promote proper gut function and to ensure […]

Myxomatosis vaccination of pet rabbits

Position Statement Steps should be taken to introduce a safe and effective myxomatosis vaccination program to protect the health of pet rabbits while not impacting unfavourably upon the control of […]

Safeguarding and improving the mental health of the veterinary team

Note: The following policies should be considered as a group; together they provide a set of principles which underpin the AVA’s wellness strategy:  Great veterinary workplaces (2023); Safeguarding and improving the mental health […]