Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association

The Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA) exists for the advancement and protection of the veterinary medical profession in Massachusetts by promoting the betterment of animal health and well-being, enhancing the human-animal bond, safeguarding public health, supporting legislative advocacy and providing excellence in continuing education. The MVMA seeks to promote excellence and fellowship amongst its members; enlighten the public as it relates to the practice and science of veterinary medicine; promote the highest standards of veterinary medicine through continuing educate in all fields of veterinary medicine; and encourage professional zeal amongst its members and seek protection of the professional rights and privileges of veterinarians. The Executive Board is the administrative and governing body of the MVMA. It is charged with the oversight of business, programming and policy for the Association. Beginning in 2012, the MVMA initiated the overhaul of its governance. Beginning with a shift in management, the new structure provided for oversight by the Executive Board, all elected officers and directors of the Association. The Steering Committee would become the Advisory Board, comprised of all committee chairs, along with representatives and leaders from allied organizations. It is the function of the Advisory Board to make recommendations to the Executive Board on matters concerning legislation, policy development, position statements, etc. In conjunction with the AVMA's parliamentarian, a new set of Bylaws was created detailing why and how the Association should exist. In addition to these new Bylaws, a secondary document, Policies and Procedures, was created as an addendum to the Bylaws. These policies and procedures established a more proactive and reactive system by which the MVMA could adapt to changing times and environments. It is the goal of the MVMA to continue the long held tradition of having healthy, positive  relationships between nonprofit  animal groups and the veterinary community in Massachusetts. The MVMA would encourage non-profits who aim to provide care to owned animals to follow the blueprint of Tufts at Tech. This non-profit clinics ought the input of surrounding vets at the initial stages of the clinic, formed an advisor board, and established definitive criteria for patient selection. Tufts at Tech has become an incredible resource for veterinarians, animal shelters, and animal control officers. The MVMA welcomes any group or organization to discuss how the non‐profit sector can work together with the veterinary community to assist animals in need.