08/16/2025
What Is AAHA Accreditation—and Why It Matters for Your Pet
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), founded in 1933, is the only organization in the U.S. and Canada that accredits veterinary hospitals. Unlike human healthcare, veterinary accreditation is entirely voluntary—but only about 15% of veterinary practices choose to pursue it, making it a true hallmark of excellence.
What Does the AAHA Accreditation Process Involve?
Practices undergo a rigorous evaluation by an AAHA consultant, covering nearly 50 mandatory standards plus many additional ones, often totaling over 900 criteria. These cover everything from anesthesia and surgery to pain management, medical records, facility conditions, and more.
The process typically takes 2 to 6 months, and re-evaluation is required every three years to ensure continued excellence and adherence to evolving standards.
How It Shapes Our In-House Medicine
Being AAHA-accredited means we maintain best-in-class protocols across every aspect of our practice:
Diagnostic and pharmacy services: We offer reliable, on-site imaging and lab work—and an in-house pharmacy—so we can diagnose and treat your pet quickly and accurately.
Advanced medical standards: From anesthesia and dentistry to emergency care and surgery, we adhere to the latest, evidence-based procedures for your pet’s safety and comfort.
Comprehensive pain management: We assess and manage your pet’s pain proactively, ensuring it is minimized—whether during an exam, procedure, or recovery.
Detailed medical records: Thorough documentation of your pet’s history enables more informed decisions and continuity of care.
Ongoing staff development: Our entire team—from veterinarians to technicians—is committed to continuous education and training, ensuring we stay at the leading edge of veterinary medicine.
Why AAHA Accreditation Means Better Care
It’s a seal of trust and quality—knowing we voluntarily accepted the challenge to meet the highest standards.
It shows we’re constantly improving, with regularly updated practices and protocols to reflect the latest advances in veterinary care.
It reflects our commitment not just to medicine, but also to client communication, facility safety, and overall operational excellence—all designed to support better experiences and outcomes for you and your pet.
Want to Learn More?
For a direct look at the what, how, and why of AAHA accreditation, here's a trusted resource to explore:
Learn more on AAHA’s official site: https://www.aaha.org/about-accreditation/
By choosing an AAHA-accredited hospital, you're choosing a practice that:
Voluntarily commits to the highest industry standards
Prioritizes safety, reliability, and continuous improvement
Ensures your pet receives premier, up-to-date medical care
Your pet deserves nothing less—and we’re proud to stand among the veterinary professionals striving for excellence.