Accreditation

In 2000, we received our accreditation from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). In 2002, we received a 4-year accreditation from AAHA, which is the highest level offered. We again achieved and additional 3-year accreditation in January of 2007. We are excited and proud of our accomplishment and feel that AAHA helps to insure continuous quality improvements in the delivery of health care, as well as, the quality of our facility.

What is distinctive about an AAHA hospital member?

American and Canadian pet owners who take their animals to an AAHA hospital member will find a veterinarian with a unique commitment to the highest standards of veterinary care as well as concern for preventative medicine.

To become an AAHA member, the candidate hospital must meet AAHA's standards for hospital services and facilities in twelve specific areas. A trained AAHA practice consultant visits the hospital to thoroughly evaluate the facility to be sure it complies with these standards. The following areas are covered in the AAHA standards:

  • Orderly and adequate medical records - These are critical for pet's welfare and continuity of care. Records are reviewed on-site as well as submitted to an outside consultant. There must be an individual record for each patient.
  • Complete diagnostic facilities - This includes the examination room, radiology service, clinical pathology services, and the equipment necessary to provide comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services. The facility must be fully equipped to make a prompt, accurate diagnosis and treatment. An on-site library of basic textbooks and current periodicals is also required.
  • Complete pharmacy facilities - The most frequently used medicines must be available at all times, controlled substances must be monitored, and clients must be adequately informed concerning treatment.
  • Proper anesthetic procedures - The hospital must conduct a pre-anesthetic examination before surgery and provide a safe, painless, state-of-the-art anesthesia during surgery.
  • Modern surgical facilities - The hospital must have an aseptic, single-use room for surgery. Proper lighting, sterile equipment and procedures, and easy access to drugs and equipment are required.
  • Nursing care - This is a vital part of an effective animal hospital. Skilled veterinary technicians contribute greatly to the professional care pets receive from diagnosis to recuperation.
  • Properly maintained environment - Safe and sanitary conditions must be maintained throughout the hospital, from the reception room to the kennel, including outside premises.
  • Emergency service - Each AAHA hospital must provide, or have access to, 24-hour emergency service for its clients.
  • Dental service - Oral hygiene is as important to a pet's health as it is to a person's health. AAHA hospitals routinely perform teeth cleaning, extractions, and gum work.

All AAHA hospital members voluntarily meet or exceed the association's standards for facilities, equipment, and quality procedures. They are regularly evaluated by an AAHA consultant to assure continuing compliance.

In addition, every AAHA veterinarian is encouraged to keep up-to-date on major developments in veterinary medicine. The association offers its 12,000 members a wide variety of continuing education opportunities---self-study courses, seminars, lectures, workshops, annual and regional meetings, videotapes, computer education, and publications.

AAHA hospital members are truly distinctive in providing the highest quality care for pets. AAHA standards are recognized around the world as a benchmark for quality care in veterinary medicine.

Please visit www.aahanet.org if you would like more information on AAHA requirements and standards.