Accreditations

In the 1930s, a group of veterinarians created standards to help bring common guidelines, practices and procedures to the veterinary profession. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), along with a group of veterinary experts, developed the AAHA Standards of Accreditation as benchmarks of excellence. The AAHA Accreditation Program helps veterinary hospitals incorporate these standards of quality care and procedures into their day-to-day practices, ultimately raising the level of care being provided to companion animals while also increasing loyalty among veterinary staff members. Being AAHA-accredited also provides a way for veterinary hospitals to show their commitment to excellence in their communities and to their clients.

AAHA is the only organization that accredits veterinary practices throughout North America. Practices that accept the challenge of accreditation are evaluated on stringent quality standards that encompass all aspects of pet care – ranging from patient care and pain management, to team training and medical record-keeping.The AAHA Standards of Accreditation are continuously updated to keep accredited practices at the forefront of veterinary medicine and advanced business practices.

Approximately 15% of veterinary practices in North America hold the “AAHA-accredited” designation. Accreditation through AAHA helps veterinary practices operate at a high level and enhances their ability to provide excellent patient care.

Learn more about AAHA’s standards and procedures at AAHA.org.