AVMA advocacy
In this article
- Learn what AVMA is doing to advance public policy.
- See how you can get involved to improve the future of the veterinary profession.
- Make your voice heard on issues that impact veterinarians and our profession.
- Veterinary workforce
Veterinary workforce
The veterinary profession is searching for workforce solutions to ensure that our practices are able to care for patients now and long into the future. What are the right answers?
Representing veterinarians at all levels
As the nation's leading representative of the veterinary profession, the AVMA serves as veterinary medicine’s voice before Congress, federal agencies, and courts. The AVMA also partners with state and local veterinary medical associations as well as international organizations to ensure veterinary voices are heard when and where they're needed.
As a trusted leader and convener, the AVMA works with policymakers to strengthen every aspect of the veterinary profession. The AVMA also monitors legislative and regulatory developments across the country, alerts our members and partners of issues that might affect them, and amplifies veterinary professionals’ advocacy efforts.
Our priority advocacy issues include:
- Animal health
- Animal welfare
- Pharmaceuticals
- Public health and food safety
- Rural veterinary care
- Small business issues
- Student debt
- Veterinary workforce
State legislative updates provide summaries of state bills and regulations tracked by the AVMA.
The AVMA’s global alliances help promote animal health and welfare on the world stage as well. See the AVMA’s international efforts.
State-by-state resources
Contact us
Latest advocacy news
Board revises AVMA policies on horse tripping, opioids, public health
May 2, 2024
WHO publishes updated list of medically important antimicrobials
April 19, 2024
Bill seeks extension for new small business reporting requirement
March 29, 2024
WOAH celebrates 100th anniversary
March 5, 2024
Veterinary professionals advocate for healthy dog importation, rural veterinary support on Capitol Hill
February 15, 2024
AVMA updates include new technology entity, PVME open for comment
January 24, 2024
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Be an advocate for veterinary medicine
AVMA's advocacy work is powered by the combined strength of our diverse membership. Your expertise can help shape public policy that advances veterinary medicine.
AVMA Congressional Advocacy Network (CAN)
AVMA CAN empowers you with tools to speak up on decisions that impact our profession. Sign up for CAN text and email alerts so you can take action when it matters most.
AVMA Political Action Committee (PAC)
The AVMA PAC helps veterinarians build relationships with lawmakers, amplifying the AVMA's voice on Capitol Hill. The PAC unites AVMA and SAVMA members' voices, strengthening our impact and ability to protect and advance veterinary medicine, our clients, and patients.