The government requires that all human hospitals be reviewed and accredited by a certified health organization. However, animal hospitals do not legally need to meet this standard. In some cases, an unaccredited veterinary hospital may mean an increased risk of poor quality of care, unsanitary environments, or other health hazards. Don’t stress, though; while pet hospitals don’t legally require accreditation, you can count on high-quality medical care from those approved by the American Animal Hospital Association® (AAHA).

A Guide to American Animal Hospital Association Accreditation

Evaluation

The association evaluates hospitals on more than 900 standards of veterinary excellence to ensure your furry friends receive the caliber of service they deserve. They emphasize disease control, a sterile environment, and humane handling, among hundreds of other important standards. The organization also requires anesthesia monitoring equipment as well as rigorous, constantly updated surgical criteria.

Every three years, the animal hospital must be re-evaluated to maintain accreditation status. Veterinary medicine is rapidly advancing, and the AAHA helps ensure practitioners consistently prioritize the health and safety of every pet.

Selection

If a veterinary center fails to meet this standard of care, it cannot become accredited. Unfortunately, only about 12 to 15% of animal hospitals in the United States and Canada meet the criteria. For that reason, if you care about your pet, choose only a clinic that provides proof of accreditation. This takes some of the pressure off you when selecting a facility, as you can rest easy knowing you have chosen a trusted hospital. 

For your convenience, you can find AAHA-accredited animal hospitals near you by entering your address on the organization’s webpage. Accredited facilities will also typically display proof of accreditation in their office and on their website.

If you need an AAHA-accredited animal hospital in the Cincinnati, OH, area, look no further than Montgomery Animal Hospital. For more than 50 years, the practice’s experienced veterinarians have consistently provided the caliber of care they would want for their own furry friends. To schedule an appointment, call (513) 791-7912. You may also visit the veterinary clinic online.