As states grapple with COVID-19 mitigation, questions have immediately arisen as to whether veterinary practices are considered “essential businesses.” We are urging that veterinary practices be considered “essential businesses” in cases where non-essential retail facilities are asked to close or repurpose personal protective equipment (PPE) due to COVID-19. AVMA has provided an open letter to federal, state, and local government officials regarding the designation of veterinary practices as essential businesses and an official statement from AVMA. These resources are available for your use and distribution. We are also happy to provide a letter addressed to a specific recipient, such as a state board of veterinary medicine, governor, or legislator.
