AWI Challenges AVMA to Improve Farm Animals Policies

Earlier this year, AWI sent letters to the American Veterinary Medical Association regarding three of its policies open to comment. Specifically, we submitted comments requesting that the AVMA improve its policies relating to castration and dehorning of cattle and its policy relating to misleading labeling on animal products intended for human consumption, as well as a comment requesting that animal welfare be considered as an integral part of contingency planning in emergencies.

cow - photo by Catherine Eckert
photo by Catherine Eckert

AVMA policies represent the guiding principles of the association and its members with respect to the practice of veterinary medicine. While the policies are nonbinding, the AVMA encourages veterinarians to follow them in their practice and in advocacy on behalf of animals. Gwendy Reyes-Illg, DVM, AWI’s veterinary advisor and an AVMA member, submitted the comments on AWI’s behalf.