ASV Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters

shelter medical staff holds a tan and white kitten closely and gives a gentle kiss on its head

The Association of Shelter Veterinarians’ (ASV) Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters provide a set of common standards for the care and welfare of animals in shelters. They also provide operational guidance to help animal welfare organizations reduce overcrowding, disease, and stress.

Use the resources here and learn about the Guidelines and how they can help you assess and improve your shelter.

Protocols & SOPs

The Association of Shelter Veterinarians’ Guidelines for Humane Rabbit Housing in Animal Shelters

Learn proven standards to support humane, high-quality rabbit care in animal shelters.

Brown and white dog chasing toy with person in blue shirt crouching in the background

Job Aid Downloads

5 Essential Behavioral Welfare Areas for Shelter Animals in Quarantine or Isolation

Shelters must ensure behavior welfare for animals in isolation or quarantine housing when managing disease in the shelter

Protocols & SOPs

The Five Domains Model for Animal Welfare

Learn how the Five Domains Model incorporates nutrition, environment, health, behavior and mental state to assess animals’ needs and welfare.

Webinar

Northern Tier Shelter Initiative Zoomies: Putting the ASV Guidelines into Action

Join us as we highlight sections of The Association of Shelter Veterinarians’ Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters and discuss actionable items you can take to implement the guidelines in your shelter.

Watch the Webinar

Woman in ASPCA shirt looking at white dog

Webinar

Northern Tier Shelter Initiative Zoomies: The Updated ASV Guidelines: Practical Guidance for Animal Welfare Organizations

Join Dr. Lauren Overman and Dr. Elizabeth Berliner to discuss the second edition of The Association of Shelter Veterinarians’ (ASV) Guidelines for Standards of Care in Animal Shelters and learn bite-sized strategies for improving welfare in your organization.