Established in 1863, the AVMA is a not-for-profit association representing more than 76,000 veterinarians working in private and corporate practice, government, industry, academia, and uniformed services. Structured to work for its members, the AVMA acts as a collective voice for its membership and for the profession.

The Student American Veterinary Medical Association (SAVMA) was formed in 1969, and today includes 29 student chapters with a total membership of over 10,000 students. Veterinary students studying outside of the US where a student chapter does not exist are welcome to become associate members.