Why to choose a veterinary clinic that is accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) was established in 1933 as the only accrediting body for veterinary clinics within the United States of America and Canada. Accreditation by AAHA is on a voluntary basis, with over 3,200 clinics participating. In order to qualify, a veterinary practice must go through a series of evaluations, in which they are evaluated based upon roughly 900 standards that have been established by AAHA. In addition, a veterinary clinic must be reevaluated every two years and consultants from AAHA regularly perform visits to ensure compliance with the standards.
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.
AAHA Accreditation helps veterinary hospitals stay on the leading edge of veterinary medicine. We also provide the quality and range of services you and your pet deserve.
By participating in the voluntary accreditation program, the Orrville Veterinary Clinic is in an elite category of veterinary clinics in the United States. We were the first in Wayne County, Ohio to undergo the initial AAHA accreditation process and are one of three accredited Hospitals in our area. We are proud to be the first Wayne county practice to undergo evaluation, setting the example for the other two local AAHA practices, which are located in Wooster and in Rittman. We are proud to be a standard bearer as advocates for the human animal bond by providing the best of care to you and your pet.
