March 2026 AVMA House of Delegates Animal Welfare Committee Report
April 21, 2026
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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:
