AAHA Accredited Vet

As pet owners, we want the best possible care for our pets. That's why it's important to choose an animal hospital that is accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). But what exactly does AAHA accreditation mean, and what standards do these hospitals uphold? We will discuss why AAHA accreditation is important and what requirements Overpeck Creek Animal Hospital and Tenafly Veterinary Center have met to be accredited.

What is AAHA Accreditation?

The American Animal Hospital Association is the only organization that accredits animal hospitals in the United States and Canada. This accreditation is voluntary and is only given to hospitals that meet the highest standards of veterinary care. AAHA-accredited hospitals must undergo a rigorous evaluation process, including an on-site inspection, to ensure they meet the AAHA's standards of excellence in areas such as medical equipment, facilities, and quality of care.

List of Standards

AAHA-accredited animal hospitals must meet over 900 standards in the following areas:

Medical Records

Accredited hospitals must maintain accurate and complete medical records for all patients. These records must include a detailed medical history, physical examination findings, diagnostic test results, and treatment plans.

Anesthesia and Veterinary Surgery

Hospitals must have protocols in place for administering anesthesia and performing veterinary surgery, including monitoring equipment and trained staff. They must also have a sterile surgical environment and follow strict infection control procedures.

Veterinary Pain Management

Veterinary pain management is important in animal care. Accredited hospitals need protocols to assess and treat pain in their patients. This includes providing appropriate pain medication and monitoring pain levels during and after procedures.

Contagious Disease

To prevent the spread of contagious diseases, accredited hospitals must have protocols in place for isolation and disinfection. They must also have procedures for handling and disposing of hazardous materials.

Pet Dental Care

Caring for your pet's teeth is important for their health, preventing plaque and tartar, and avoiding dental problems. Accredited hospitals should have procedures for dental check-ups, cleanings, and tooth removal. They must also have the necessary equipment and trained staff to perform these dental cleaning procedures.

Emergency Vet and Critical Care

Accredited hospitals must have protocols in place for handling emergency and critical care situations. This includes having trained staff available 24/7 and the necessary equipment to provide life-saving treatments.

Pharmacy

Hospitals must have a well-stocked pharmacy with proper storage and handling procedures for medications. They must also have protocols in place for dispensing and giving medications to patients.

Veterinary Diagnostics

Accredited hospitals must have the necessary equipment and trained staff to perform veterinary diagnostics, such as x-rays and ultrasounds. They must also have protocols in place for interpreting and reporting these images.

Why Choose an AAHA-Accredited Hospital?

Choosing an AAHA-accredited animal hospital means you can trust that your pet will receive the highest quality of care. These hospitals must meet strict standards in all areas of veterinary medicine, ensuring that your pet receives the best possible treatment. Additionally, accredited hospitals must undergo regular evaluations to maintain their accreditation, so you can be confident that they are continuously upholding these standards.

AAHA accreditation is a significant achievement for animal hospitals, and it demonstrates their commitment to providing quality care for your pets. By choosing an AAHA-accredited hospital, you can have peace of mind knowing that your furry family member is in good hands.