The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) is an international association of more than 17,000 veterinary care providers who treat companion animals. Established in 1933, AAHA is well known among veterinarians and pet owners for its standards for hospitals and pet health care. Over 2,800 veterinary hospitals voluntarily participate in the AAHA hospital evaluation program. Trained consultants regularly visit these hospitals to ensure compliance with AAHA's standards for services and facilities. Individual veterinarians can also be members of AAHA. These affiliate members subscribe to the same general principles as hospital members but do not participate in AAHA hospital evaluations.
AAHA reminds pet owners that they can help pets live healthier and longer lives by taking their pets to the veterinarian for annual physical exams, vaccinations, and dental care as well as providing pets with fresh water, a balanced diet, and exercise.

Hospitals that are accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) meet high veterinary care standards. Each hospital voluntarily completes a detailed evaluation of its services and equipment. Then a trained practice consultant thoroughly inspects the hospital to make sure it meets AAHA's high standards in the areas of:

• emergency services
• surgery and anesthesia
• radiology services
• pathology services
• nursing care
• pharmacy
• dentistry
• examination facilities
• pet medical records
• medical library
• housekeeping and maintenance

Less than 18 percent of the small animal veterinary hospitals in the United States and Canada are accredited AAHA members.

In addition to the facility, you'll also want to make sure the veterinarian meets your expectations. It's important that you and your pet are comfortable with the doctor. The veterinarian should be able to communicate with you and make you feel comfortable asking questions. Even if the doctor is highly qualified, if you don't hit it off, you may need to go elsewhere.

Finally, when choosing a veterinary hospital, make sure the office hours and payment policy are convenient for you. Ask for a hospital brochure or welcome letter that explains the hospital policies and procedures.