Congratulations to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, which received word last week that the Small Animal Hospital has been reaccredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) for another three year term. The decision was based on a successful evaluation that included a tour of the facility; a review of protocols, standard operating procedures, log books and medical records; and an assessment of the various hospital specialties.

AAHA is the only organization that accredits companion animal veterinary practices in the United States and Canada. Practices that accept the challenge of accreditation are evaluated on stringent quality standards that encompass all aspects of veterinary medicine including pain management, patient care, and team training. Today, approximately 12-15% of veterinary practices in the U.S. and Canada hold the "AAHA-accredited" designation.

According to AAHA, survey research shows that accreditation is becoming increasingly important to pet owners. A 2013 AAHA pet owner study conducted by Trone Brand Energy found that, after learning about AAHA accreditation, 81% of pet owners said they would choose an AAHA-accredited veterinary hospital over a nonaccredited one. Additionally, 51% said they would drive further to take their pet to an AAHA-accredited hospital, and 44% said they would pay more for services to utilize an AAHA-accredited hospital.