The Standard of Veterinary Excellence

Established in 1933 by leaders in the veterinary profession, AAHA is the only companion animal exclusive veterinary association. AAHA is best known for its accreditation of companion animal practices. To become accredited, companion animal hospitals undergo regular comprehensive evaluations by AAHA veterinary experts who evaluate the practice on approximately 900 standards of veterinary care. Only 12-15% of animal hospitals in the country are AAHA accredited.

How does a veterinary clinic that is accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association benefit you? Here are a few examples:

• The standards require hospitals to provide diagnostic services (x-ray and laboratory) so that they can quickly and accurately diagnose your pet.

• The standards focus on the quality of care in the areas of: anesthesia, contagious diseases, dentistry, pain management, patient care, surgery and emergency care.

• AAHA Accredited hospitals have an onsite pharmacy (another standards area).  This is a benefit in that they can begin treatment immediately on your pet.

• AAHA standards also require that medical records be thorough and complete.  This helps the doctors to better understand your pet’s medical history and how past health issues might be impacting their current medical status.