Molting, pregnant sows on AVMA agenda; AAVSB takes backseat

Schaumburg, Ill.-

The rift between the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) regarding their rival foreign graduate equivalency programs takes a backseat at the 2002 AVMA Annual Convention in Nashville, Tenn.

"We're not allowing that issue to overwhelm us like it did lastyear in Boston when it absolutely consumed us," says Dr. Bruce Little,AVMA executive vice president. "We're not giving AAVSB a forum. Thisis our annual showcase; we need to put our best foot forward."

The conflict brings to light ethical and relevancy questions pertainingto both organizations' programs.

The AVMA House of Delegates' (HOD) two-day meeting starts July 12. AAVSB'smeeting runs July 13-15 in Nashville.

Forced molting makes news

While the HOD will not vote on any actions concerning AAVSB, resolutionson the molting of layer hens should take center stage as a leftover fromlast year. While one resolution stresses monitoring and controlling thepractice, the other deems molting inhumane and unethical.

"Forced molting is inhumane because it involves food deprivation,"the resolution states.

Commending 9/11 volunteers

Two resolutions stem from actions of veterinarians following the Sept.11 terrorist attacks.

One recognizes veterinary volunteer efforts, commending the "heroicactions of all volunteers and rescue workers" and in particular, "thoseof the veterinary profession who utilized their training and expertise toassist with the recovery efforts."

The other resolution commends the achievements of active and reservecomponent veterinarians of the Uniformed Services of the United States ofAmerica taking part in homeland defense efforts.

Sows need better homes

Adopting a new position on the housing of pregnant sows also is on theagenda. The guidelines address housing and daily swine operations, touchingon everything from sow aggression to monitoring individual sow appetites.

Finally, some AVMA members want a printed, photographic roster of theHOD, which currently is available only online. The financial impact, theresolution states, is approximately $1,100 a year per the 150 copies proposed.

It would "facilitate contacts and telephone consultations betweenHouse members as they become more familiar with each other," the resolutionstates.