By Deb Nickelson, D.V.M., M.B.A, AAIV Delegate to the AVMA HOD Dr. Wendy Weirich, former AAIV board member and long-standing member of the AVMA Animal Welfare Committee informed us that the AVMA policy, “Use of random-source dogs and cats for research, testing and education” is under review and open for comments. There are lab animal veterinarians on the Animal Welfare Committee who will ensure that all lab animal regulations are followed in any changes that are made. Basically, the majority of dogs and cats used in biomedical research and testing are bred specifically for such use by USDA Class A licensees and are referred to as purpose-bred animals. However, there may be limited research and testing situations where there is a justifiable need for dogs and cats with other genetic and physical features not found in purpose-bred animals. Such animals may include random-source animals. Random-source animals are also used for limited veterinary and science education purposes. The carefully controlled use of random-source dogs and cats can contribute to improving the health and welfare of animals and humans. The decision to use such animals should always include rigorous consideration of the 3Rs principles of refinement, reduction, and replacement. The AVMA believes there is justification for prudent and humane use of random-source dogs and cats in research, testing, and education, with provisions outlined in the policy. This policy was last reviewed and updated in 2021. Everyone is welcome to read the policy and make comments on the link provided. This gives the Animal Welfare Committee a chance to review all comments and make changes before this policy is made into a resolution set forth in the House of Delegates this July. The policy and place to make comments are at this link: https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/avma-policies/use-random-source-dogs-and-cats-research-testing-and-education
By Deb Nickelson, D.V.M., M.B.A, AAIV Delegate to the AVMA HOD The next meeting of the House of Delegates is right before the AVMA convention on July 9-10, 2026 in Anaheim CA. There will be elections for members of AVMA councils and committees. While some nominations were due May 1, there are still several positions that are open until they are filled. VOLUNTEER If you feel underrepresented by the AVMA or want to make sure you are represented, this is your chance to step up, have a seat at the table and be heard. You have so much expertise and experience to offer. Why do it? Volunteering with the AVMA | American Veterinary Medical Association What is involved? Usually, people serve a three-year team on councils and committees and may seek a second term for three years. Meetings are at AVMA headquarters in Schaumburg IL once or twice a year and virtually. Any ad hoc work is done remotely. For positions that include both a delegate and alternate delegate, the alternate is included in email and learns from the delegate but may not attend meetings, depending on the group. What positions are available? Check here for the list of what is and will be available. Some require nomination from a group such as AAIV (which we are happy to do), some require a self nomination. Councils, committees, task forces, and trusts | American Veterinary Medical Association I am happy to assist you to figure out which position would be the best fit and help you navigate the application and nomination process. Send a message to me at industryvets@aaivet.org .
Dear AAIV Members, As we begin a new year, I am honored to serve as president of the American Association of Industry Veterinarians. January is a natural time for reflection and renewal, and an opportunity to look ahead with intention—both as individuals and as an organization. Our focus for the year ahead is clear: growing our membership and meeting the evolving needs of our members through meaningful education and effective advocacy. Industry veterinarians play a vital and increasingly visible role across animal health, research, regulatory affairs and innovation. Ensuring that AAIV remains a professional home for this diverse and expanding community is one of our highest priorities. Growing our membership is not simply about numbers. It is about strengthening our collective voice, expanding our professional network and ensuring that veterinarians working in industry—at every career stage—see AAIV as relevant, welcoming and indispensable. Education remains central to that commitment. AAIV will continue to focus on high-quality educational offerings that are practical, forward-thinking and responsive to the real-world challenges our members face with professional development, leadership and interdisciplinary perspectives that support success in industry careers. Equally important is advocacy. AAIV exists to represent and advance the interests of industry veterinarians and we take that responsibility seriously. Through our seat in the House of Delegates of AVMA, AAIV is the voice of industry veterinarians within the AVMA, we will continue to advocate for policies and practices that support our members and the important work they do. I would like to personally invite you to join us at the AAIV Networking Meeting during the VMX Conference. This gathering is an excellent opportunity to connect with colleagues across industry sectors, welcome new members, strengthen the professional relationships that make our association thrive and share your feedback about what you want from the AAIV. Whether you are attending VMX for the first time or are a long-time participant, we encourage you to stop by, reconnect, and bring a colleague who may be interested in learning more about AAIV. None of this work happens without the dedication of our board, officers and volunteers who contribute their time, ideas and expertise. I am deeply grateful for their commitment and inspired by the energy and vision they bring to our association. As we move into the year ahead, I invite you to stay engaged, share your perspectives and help shape the future of AAIV. Together, we will continue to build a strong, connected and forward-looking community for industry veterinarians. I look forward to seeing many of you at our WVC networking event and/or connecting with you in the year ahead. Respectfully, Carolyn Luther, D.V.M. President, American Association of Industry Veterinarians (AAIV)
