The AVMA is the nation’s leading advocate for the veterinary profession. Representing more than 108,000 members, we protect, promote and advance the needs of all veterinarians and those they serve.
Our commitment is to advance the shared interests, values and goals of our membership, through a variety of avenues:
- We develop positions on key issues and advocate for veterinarians, advancing their ability to provide crucial veterinary services.
- We provide educational accreditation and certification programs that protect and elevate the quality of veterinary care.
- We provide timely and relevant products and services to our members that enhance their opportunities for success and service, and support them in protecting the health and welfare of animals in their care.
- We educate the public on the important and varied types of work that veterinarians do to advance both animal and human health.
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) is the premier organization dedicated to accrediting animal hospitals across the United States and Canada. As the sole accrediting body for veterinary hospitals, AAHA sets the benchmark for excellence in pet health care. Our accredited hospitals voluntarily undergo rigorous evaluations against approximately 900 standards of veterinary care, ensuring the highest level of service and facility quality.
With over 3,600 small animal veterinary hospitals accredited, AAHA is a trusted resource for veterinarians committed to delivering superior medical care. Our consultants provide ongoing support and regular visits to ensure continuous compliance with AAHA standards, helping practices maintain their commitment to excellence.
Mission:
-Enhance the abilities of veterinarians to provide exceptional medical care to companion animals.
-Support veterinarians in successfully managing their practices and maintaining top-tier facilities.
-Fulfill the public's expectations for high-quality small animal veterinary medicine.
By choosing AAHA accreditation, veterinarians align with a community dedicated to advancing veterinary care and ensuring the best outcomes for pets and their families.
Founded in 1965, the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) is the American Veterinary Medical Association specialty board which sets the standards for advanced professionalism in veterinary surgery. Following the 2024 certification examination, ACVS includes more than 2,500 Diplomates. Approximately 70 veterinarians earn their Diplomate credentials every year.
More than 65 percent of ACVS Diplomates operate in private and specialty practices that accept cases on a referral basis from primary care practitioners. The remainder are primarily employed by academic institutions and industry where they teach, conduct research, practice in teaching hospitals, and participate in the development of new products and treatments which improve the quality of veterinary and human health care.
For more information about ACVS, including its mission, history, and commitment to diversity, visit the ACVS website.