The Meaning and Value of an AAHA-Accredited Veterinary Hospital
When pet owners shop around for a good vet, they typically seek a positive, affordable experience. However, not all veterinary practices are created equal. There are higher standards of practice in place that make an AAHA-accredited hospital a better choice, but what exactly does that mean to a pet owner?
The Gold Standard
Human hospitals have strict policies and procedures intended to regulate the quality of care. Veterinary hospitals and clinics, however, are not mandated to follow the highest standards of veterinary care as outlined by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA); it is entirely voluntary.
Established in 1933, a group of veterinarians created AAHA as a way to better serve pets in the U.S. and Canada. Their goal was (and continues to be) the delivery of excellent care via education, facility management, client and patient care, and technical advancement.
AAHA-Accredited Hospitals
For a hospital to be accredited, a thorough application process includes an evaluation of over 900 various standards of veterinary care. Reviewed and updated to stay current with scientific trends and advancements, the following areas that must demonstrate excellence include:
- Patient care
- Laboratory
- Pharmacy
- Medical records
- Contagious disease management
- Examination facilities
- Diagnostics
- Anesthesia
- Customer service
- Safety
- Pain management
- Surgery
- Dental care
- Emergency and critical care
- Continuing education
- Cleanliness
- Housekeeping and maintenance
- Leadership
- Referral standards
One and Done?
In order to maintain status as an AAHA-accredited hospital, our hospital is reviewed and evaluated every three years. In accordance with AAHA guidelines, we have to demonstrate success regarding hospital procedures, and detail how we go above and beyond what is generally accepted from pet owners. Indeed, our doctors complete over 50 hours of continued education each year, and all support staff lead the industry in their areas of expertise.
What It Means for You
The value of our affiliation with AAHA is passed onto our clients and the pets they hold dear. Imagine taking your beloved pet to a facility that isn’t required to meet (or deliver) a high standard of care. In other words, when you take your pet to an AAHA-accredited hospital, you know he or she is in the most capable hands.
What Else to Know
Since our goal is to provide the highest level of care for your pet, we gladly accept feedback and recommendations on ways we can improve. In short, the level of support and oversight we receive from AAHA helps us become better providers.
If you have any questions or concerns about our services or accreditation, we hope you’ll contact us. We always look forward to helping you.