The World Small Animal Veterinary Association has added animal welfare to its library of Global Guidelines.
The document, released Sept. 25 at the organization’s World Congress in Singapore, aims to “bridge differing perceptions of welfare around the world” and help veterinarians “tackle the ethical questions and moral issues which impact welfare,” WSAVA reported.
WSAVA’s incoming president, Shane Ryan, BVSc, MVS, CVA, MChiroSc, said the recommendations, checklists and other tools will help veterinarians “promote optimal levels of welfare throughout the veterinary visit” and “offer guidance on increasing welfare beyond the doors of the clinic through outreach activities.”
One checklist asks:
- Are you up to date with scientific advances in understanding and assessing animal welfare?
- Do you have a stated policy commitment to manage and promote animal welfare in your clinic?
- Do all your staff members understand the clinic’s commitment to manage and promote animal welfare?
- Have you communicated your commitment to animal welfare to your clients, community and others?
The document is available at https://bit.ly/2D3RAoc.
Other WSAVA guidelines covering areas such as pain management, vaccination, nutrition and dentistry may be downloaded at https://www.wsava.org/Guidelines.