Insights
Spectrum of Care Looms Large in Debate over Access to Care
Mark Cushing of the Animal Policy Group explores the growing relevance of “Spectrum of Care” in veterinary medicine in his latest column for Animal Health News and Views. While nearly every organization now acknowledges the term, Cushing argues that few take meaningful action to support its implementation. At the heart of the issue is whether…
A Must-Read for Pet Care Providers
In his latest piece for Animal Health News and Views, Mark Cushing of the Animal Policy Group breaks down the findings of PetSmart Charities’ new State of Pet Care Study, conducted with Gallup. The report underscores just how deeply Americans value their pets—97% consider them family—and how this shapes expectations for veterinary care. Cushing points…
Denver’s New Pet Deposit Program Helps Renters and Their Roommates…with Tails
The city of Denver’s District 10 is making it easier for renters to keep their four-legged roommates—no job, no rent money, but suddenly very expensive. The new Denver Pet Deposit Assistance Program was initiated by APPA with its focus on removing barriers to pet ownership. The program launches in June 2025 and will assist one-hundred…
The Latest Policy Issues on the Veterinary Horizon
Mark Cushing of the Animal Policy Group recently outlined three critical policy shifts reshaping veterinary care in his May column for Animal Health News and Views. He highlighted Colorado’s trailblazing move to license Veterinary Professional Associates (VPAs)—a mid-level role akin to human healthcare’s PAs. Despite opposition from major associations, Colorado voters approved the measure, and…
6 Steps for Reforming the Council on Education
Mark Cushing of the Animal Policy Group outlined six urgent reforms needed to modernize veterinary school accreditation in a recent Animal Health News and Views article. He argued that the Council on Education (COE), currently embedded within the AVMA, must become independent to ensure unbiased oversight. Cushing’s proposals include relocating COE operations, hiring a CEO…
Can We Make It Easier to Have Dogs?
Mark Cushing of the Animal Policy Group recently raised a timely question: how can we reduce barriers to pet ownership in the U.S.? Writing for Animal Health News and Views, he identified three key issues—housing restrictions, access to veterinary care, and workplace limitations—as major obstacles, especially for Millennials and Gen Z. Cushing pointed to successful…