AAHA: The standard of veterinary excellence

Laurier AnimaPlus Veterinary Hospital  is proud to be recognized by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).

What does this mean for you and your pet?

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) is an international group that recognizes more than 36 000 veterinary care providers. Founded in 1933, the Association is known among veterinarians and pet owners for its excellence in veterinary practice and its high-quality pet care.

AAHA is the only professional association that recognizes the excellence of veterinary hospitals across Canada and the United States. Approximately 3000 certified facilities choose to be evaluated on 900 standards in the following areas: care quality, diagnosis, pharmacy, medical records keeping and business management. AAHA consultants regularly visit hospitals to ensure ongoing compliance with the Association’s standards.

It is important for you, pet owners, to know that your hospital is recognized for the high level of excellence of its veterinary practice. Here are some examples of what the accreditation means for you:

• The standards focus on patient care quality, pain control, surgery, anesthesia, contagious diseases, dental care, examination rooms, diagnostics, imaging, emergency care, pharmacy, medical records keeping and continuous training of employees.
• Accredited hospitals must provide diagnostic services such as X-rays and laboratories to help make an accurate diagnosis.
• Accredited hospitals are required to have a pharmacy onsite (which must meet its own set of standards) in order to be able to start treatment immediately.
• Hospitals must rigorously maintain their medical records to help veterinarians better understand the pet’s record and medical history which may affect the patient’s current health condition.
• AAHA standards are recognized as an assurance of high-quality care. These standards are regularly reviewed and updated to ensure they meet the latest breakthroughs in veterinary medicine.
• Being a recognized AAHA facility encourages veterinary hospitals to stay at the cutting edge of technology and to provide the best care possible for pets and their owner.

To learn more about this accreditation, visit the American Animal Hospital’s Association’s website.

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