Do you know how to safely transport pets from one area to another for adoption without creating risk of health, safety, and behavior problems? The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has developed guidelines for the relocation of cats and dogs for adoption.
From their announcement:
The AVMA’s new publication, Relocation of Dogs and Cats for Adoption: Best Practices, is designed to assist those who are involved in relocation efforts so that the pet’s chances of finding its forever home are improved, while ensuring its safety and the safety of other animals and people. The guidelines apply to shelter-to-shelter relocations, grassroots efforts and commercial operations.
The relocation guidelines, which were created by the AVMA’s Animal Welfare Committee with assistance from the AVMA Animal Welfare Division, address the following topics:
- Reasons for relocating adoptable pet
- Methods of relocation
- Selection of dogs and cats for relocation, including whether they are suitable for transport
- Responsibilities of participating individuals and organizations
- Responsibilities at the point of origin, during transport and at the destination
- Enclosure space and design
- Special precautions for young animals, brachycephalic dog breeds, cats, and “special needs” dogs and cats
Read more and download the guidelines here.