Weekly Vet Report: Accreditation changes could affect veterinary education, new canine diabetes guidelines & more

Proposed accreditation changes could affect veterinary education

The Trump administration is proposing major changes to how colleges and professional programs are accredited—and the changes could affect veterinary education.

The Department of Education’s proposed rule is part of the administration’s broader effort to reshape higher education. Trump has previously described accreditation as his “secret weapon” for doing so, according to The Wall Street Journal.¹

Under the proposal, accreditation would focus less on bureaucratic processes and more on student outcomes, including licensing exam performance, graduation, employment, and whether graduates can repay their loans. The rule would also make it easier for new accreditors to enter the field and allow colleges to hold multiple accreditations.

The proposal would also change what accreditors can require of colleges on issues including diversity, equity and inclusion, discrimination, academic freedom and differing viewpoints.

The changes could affect the AVMA Council on Education, which accredits US veterinary schools. Under the proposal, the council could face new requirements to operate more independently from the AVMA and the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges.

The administration says the changes would improve accountability and competition. Others worry the overhaul could give the federal government too much influence over how colleges set their policies and standards.

The Department of Education plans to finalize the rule by Nov. 1, with most changes taking effect no earlier than July 1, 2027. Some provisions would be delayed until July 1, 2028. Public comments are due Sept. 21.

FDA emergency authorizes nitenpyram for New World screwworm prevention

For the first time, veterinarians have a drug authorized to help prevent New World screwworm infestations in dogs and cats.

The FDA has issued emergency use authorizations for Capstar (nitenpyram) tablets and generic nitenpyram tablets to treat and prevent New World screwworm infestations in dogs and cats. Previously, the generic nitenpyram product had been authorized for treatment only.

The authorization marks the first time the FDA has authorized a drug for the prevention of screwworm myiasis in these animals.

The FDA says most US pets remain at low risk, but risk is higher for animals living in, traveling to or returning from areas where screwworm has been identified.

Veterinarians should monitor at-risk animals for signs of infestation, including visible maggots or foul odors coming from wounds or body openings. Suspected infestations require immediate veterinary care.

AAHA releases 2026 canine diabetes guidelines

The American Animal Hospital Association has released its 2026 Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs, separating its canine and feline diabetes guidance into two documents for the first time to reflect differences in how the disease affects each species.

The canine guidelines cover diagnosis, treatment, monitoring and dietary management. They also incorporate newer tools and treatment options, including continuous glucose monitors and long-acting insulins such as degludec and glargine U-300.

The guidelines include charts and algorithms covering insulin selection, dosing, and hypoglycemia management, providing clinicians with practical tools for managing canine diabetes.

Reference

1. Belkin D, Mulvaney E. Trump Administration Attacks Bar Association’s Power to Accredit Law Schools. The Wall Street Journal. August 21, 2026. Accessed September 3, 2026. https://www.wsj.com/us-news/education/aba-american-bar-association-law-schools-accredit-trump-education-e56f4cbc?utm_source=chatgpt.com