Statement on Xylazine
On behalf of the of The Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association, we want to thank Governor Shapiro’s Office for their quick action to hear our concerns and their willingness to work with us regarding the scheduling of xylazine as a Schedule III controlled substance.
Xylazine is an FDA-approved prescription sedative with pain-relieving and muscle relaxing properties for use in animals. It is one of the most widely used veterinary drugs across many species, including cats, dogs, horses, cattle, deer, elk, rats, mice, wildlife, and zoo animals.
H.R. 1839/S. 993 (Combating Illicit Xylazine Act)
Illicit xylazine has been found to be an adulterant in illicit fentanyl and heroin and can contribute to overdose deaths and the development of chronic sores in drug users. Xylazine is an important veterinary sedative used to facilitate the safe handling of many species and is particularly important in livestock. Sedation of fractious animals is essential to keep people and the animals on which they work safe.
Position Statement on Veterinary Nursing
In 2017, NAVTA launched the Veterinary Nurse Initiative in part to address the ongoing credentialed veterinary technician shortage present in Pennsylvania and the rest of the country. NAVTA’s leadership proposes that standardizing the title to “veterinary nurse” enhances public awareness about the role of the CVT/RVT/LVT, as well as providing clarity about the role within the profession.
Senate Panel Discusses PA Dog Law, Animal Welfare Issues During Capitol Hearing
On October 20, 2020, the Pennsylvania Senate Judiciary Committee discussed the PA Dog Law and animal welfare issues during a Capitol hearing. In summary, PVMA absolutely opposes overbreeding, inhumane breeding of dogs, as well as breeders that are acting illegally. PVMA opposes SB 44 (Victoria’s Law) and supports SB 1267. Dr. Mary Jane McNamee, PVMA’s […]
SB 44 (Victoria’s Law)
The Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association is PA’s only statewide professional membership organization for the veterinary profession representing over 3,800 veterinarians, certified veterinary technicians, assistants, practice managers, and other support staff. Our mission is to ensure the vitality of the profession by promoting excellence in veterinary medicine, advancing animal health and welfare, and protecting and enhancing […]
Endorsement and Expansion of the AAEP Position Statement on Therapeutic Medications in Non-Racing Performance Horse
PVMA’s Position The Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association (PVMA) endorses and expands the American Association of Equine Practitioners’ (AAEP) Position Statement on Therapeutic Medications in Non-Racing Performance Horses (2002). Three specific areas of emphasis modify the position statement and make it more applicable to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.
Definition of a Pet
PVMA’s Position Pet shall mean: A domesticated animal that has been bought, bred, raised or otherwise acquired and maintained in accordance with local, state and federal laws for the primary purpose of providing companionship and/or enjoyment to the owner. The owner must show that the animal has received adequate care including, but not limited to: […]
Owner VS. Guardian
PVMA’s Position The Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association is dedicated to the advancement of animal welfare and the human-animal bond. We support the current legal standing of animals as the property of their owners. We oppose the use of the term “guardian” to describe these parties. Guardian is a well-defined legal term that is not appropriate […]
Pets as Property
PVMA’s Position The Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association (PVMA) is dedicated to the advancement of animal welfare and we feel very strongly that animals are not property in the same way that tables, lamps, or cars are property. We further believe that owners should be allowed to prove that pet animals have economic values above their […]
Non-Economic Damages
PVMA’s Position The Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association is dedicated to the advancement of animal welfare. We support the resolution drafted by the Council of State Governments and adopted by their governing board in September 2004. We do not support any legislation that would elevate the rights of animals above the rights of people. Notice: JavaScript […]
