The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) is an organization serving veterinarians and members of their staffs, who are engaged in the delivery of veterinary medical care to pets. In addition to providing educational programs and publications and various services to practices, the Association publishes Standards for veterinary practices. Those practices that choose to undergo periodic on-site evaluation by AAHA staff may become Accredited by the Association. Membership in AAHA and participation in the Accreditation Program is voluntary.

The Standards and the Accreditation Program

The Standards developed and published by AAHA are widely accepted as representing those components of veterinary practice that represent high quality care. The Standards are periodically reviewed and updated to ensure that they remain consistent with evolving knowledge and technology. They cover physical facilities, equipment, patient and staff safety, staff continuing education and training, medical record keeping, and medical protocols.  Those practices that wish to be accredited complete a lengthy application process, which culminates with an on-site visit by a veterinary professional employed by AAHA. Those practices that are found to be in compliance with the policies and Standards requirements established by the Association are awarded AAHA Accredited Practice status. In order to maintain accreditation, the practice must undergo periodic review and additional on-site evaluations, at intervals of approximately every three years.

What Accreditation Means for Pet Owners

Choosing an AAHA accredited veterinary practice for your pet’s medical care assures you that the practice you have selected has the facilities, equipment, staff, and medical protocols that AAHA believes are important for the delivery of high quality care. Further, voluntary commitment to the AAHA Standards and the Accreditation Program demonstrates that the practice has chosen to have itself measured by an outside organization against the most rigorous published Standards in the industry.