downloadThe Executive Board of American Veterinary Medical Association approved an amendment to Veterinarian’s Oath to highlight the priority of the profession in animal welfare as well.  The responsibility of the veterinarian to ensure adequate animal welfare or to promote good animal welfare was not mentioned in the oath of veterinarians.

The newly revised section of the oath—the committee’s additions appear in bold italics—roatheads as follows: “Being admitted to the profession of veterinary medicine, I solemnly swear to use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health and welfare, the prevention and relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources, the promotion of public health, and the advancement of medical knowledge.”

“Ensuring animal welfare is a human responsibility that includes consideration for all aspects of animal well-being, including proper housing, management, nutrition, disease prevention and treatment, responsible care, humane handling, and, when necessary, humane euthanasia,” so says AVMA in its website. The American Veterinary Medical Association was founded in 1863 and is considered as one of the oldest and largest veterinary medical organizations in the world.