The American Animal Hospital Association is committed to continuing the search for more acceptable means to managing the population of homeless animals. North America’s animal shelters, both public and private, face the difficult decision to euthanize millions of homeless cats and dogs each year. Veterinarians should work with and support shelter medicine programs to improve the health and wellbeing of animals in shelters, reduce relinquishment, promote the adoption of shelter animals, and support spay/neuter and behavior programs. AAHA also supports euthanasia only being conducted by qualified and trained personnel using humane drugs.

Adopted by the American Animal Hospital Association Board of Directors November 1994. Last revised March 2010.