AVMA ANIMALS USED IN ENTERTAINMENT, SHOWS, AND EXHIBITION (2007)
The AVMA supports the humane and ethical use of animals in spectator events, shows, exhibitions and in motion pictures and television in accordance with existing federal, state, and local animal protection laws. The AVMA encourages all organizations involved with animals in spectator events, shows, exhibitions, and in motion pictures and television to develop, implement, and enforce appropriate guidelines or standards to ensure humane treatment of these animals, including the provision of veterinary care.
Further, the AVMA recommends that any spectator events involving animals be conducted in a manner that minimizes injury and that veterinary care be provided or is readily available. Examples of such events include but are not limited to animal exhibitions, dog racing, dog sled racing, field trials, horse racing, polo, and rodeo. The AVMA condemns the fraudulent use of drugs, non-nutritive agents, or procedures intended to alter performance, conformation, appearance, or other functions of animals in competition, The Association urges its members to report such activities to the appropriate authorities.
Finally, the AVMA condemns the use of live animals for training racing dogs and the practice of “soring” as defined by and covered in the Horse Protection Act, U.S. Code Title 15, Chapter 44, Sections 1821-1831; Title 9, Chapter 1, Parts 11 & 12.
This position was adopted by the AAEP Board of Directors on January 26, 2008 and replaces the AVMA Policy on the Welfare of Animals in Spectator Events (2002).
AVMA ANIMAL WELFARE PRINCIPLES (2006)
Note: When the welfare of horses is assessed, their broad athletic, economic and recreational uses must also be considered. (AAEP, 2008)
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.
w 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.
w Decisions regarding animal care, use, and welfare shall be made by balancing scientific knowledge and professional judgment with consideration of ethical and societal values.
w 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.
w Animals should be cared for in ways that minimize fear, pain, stress, and suffering.
w Procedures related to animal housing, management, care, and use should be continuously evaluated, and when indicated, refined or replaced.
w Conservation and management of animal populations should be humane, socially responsible, and scientifically prudent.
w Animals shall be treated with respect and dignity throughout their lives and, when necessary, provided a humane death.
w 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.
This position was adopted by the AAEP Board of Directors on January 26, 2008 and replaces the AVMA Policy on Animal Welfare and Animal Rights (2002).
