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News affecting the practice of veterinary medicine and the care of animals.

July 27, 2026

Cyanobacteria Harmful Algal Bloom Advisories

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) can cause serious illness or death in pets and livestock that ingest water or mats containing high concentrations of cyanotoxins. When in doubt, stay out!

July 25, 2026

IP 28: OVMA is Opposed

The OVMA opposes Initiative Petition 28, formally titled People for the Elimination of Animal Cruelty Exemptions (PEACE) Act. Update: The petition did not gather enough validated signatures and will not be on the November ballot.

July 23, 2026

Wildfire Smoke & Animals

Health advisories issued for air quality also apply to animals. Smoke, ash and dust from wildfires affects pets, birds, horses, livestock and wildlife.

April 10, 2026

IP 28 Overview

The OVMA opposes IP 28. If enacted, IP 28 would radically alter Oregon’s animal cruelty landscape by striking down long-standing exemptions from prosecution for common agricultural husbandry practices, fishing, hunting, scientific research, wildlife management, and pest control.

March 18, 2026

Dr. Gail Colbern is the OVMA's New President

Dr. Gail Colbern of Green Springs Veterinary Service in Ashland is the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association’s (OVMA) new president. She will serve in this role through February 2027.

March 9, 2026

Recent Cattle Reproductive Losses in NE Oregon: Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD)

The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) has recently received reports from veterinarians and cattle producers in Northeast Oregon about a concerning increase in late‑term abortions and the birth of dummy calves. Diagnostic testing has indicated Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD) is present in fetal tissue in at least two of the reported cases.

March 2, 2026

Oregon Animal Hall of Fame™

Each year, the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association and the Animal Health Foundation of Oregon honor animals who, through unselfish and courageous accomplishments, exemplify the affection, loyalty, security, public service, and value of the human-animal bond. This year's inductees were Skipper in the Hero category, and Benny in the Professional category.

December 2, 2025

Success Comes by Paying Attention, Taking Action

The OVMA is the only group in Oregon that has a pulse on the breadth of legislation and regulations that are considered at the Capitol in Salem or by state agencies that have a bearing on the business and practice of veterinary medicine. As this year comes to a close, following is a summary of key issues in recent years where OVMA took action on behalf of the profession.

November 6, 2025

Support VOTE PAC

With your contribution to VOTE (Veterinarians Organized to Elect) PAC, your can help the OVMA support legislators who have been there for the profession.