What Accreditation Means for Pet Owners

Choosing an AAHA accredited veterinary practice
for your pets medical care assures you that the
practice you have selected has the facilities,
equipment, staff, and medical protocols that AAHA
believes are important for the delivery of high quality
care. Further, voluntary commitment to the AAHA
Standards and the Accreditation Program demonstrates
that the practice has chosen to have itself measured by
an outside organization against the most rigorous
published Standards in the industry.

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.

PetDocks Veterinary Hospital is proud to be accredited by The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), an
international organization of more 17,000 veterinary health care providers committed to excellence in small animal care.
To become an AAHA hospital member, PetDocks Veterinary Hospital was required to meet AAHA's standards for
hospital services and facilities in 12 specific areas. A trained AAHA practice consultant periodically visits the hospital to
thoroughly evaluate the facility to be sure it complies with these standards. The following areas are covered in the AAHA
standards:

Orderly and adequate medical records:  These are critical for the pet's welfare and continuity of care. Records are
reviewed on-site. There must be an individual record for each pet patient.

Complete diagnostic facilities:  This includes the examination room, radiology services, clinical pathology services,
and the equipment necessary to provide comprehensive inpatient and outpatient services. The facility must be fully
equipped to make prompt, accurate diagnosis and treatment. An on-site library of basic textbooks and current
periodicals also is required.

Complete pharmacy facilities:  The most frequently used medicines must be available at all times, controlled
substances must be monitored, and clients must be adequately informed concerning treatment.

Proper anesthetic procedures:  The hospital must conduct a pre-anesthetic examination before surgery and provide
a safe, painless, state-of-the-art anesthesia during surgery.

Modern surgical facilities:  The hospital must have an aseptic, single-use room for surgery. Proper lighting, sterile
equipment and procedures, and easy access to drugs and equipment are required.

Nursing care:  This is a vital part of an efficient animal hospital. Skilled veterinary technicians contribute greatly to the
professional care pets receive from diagnosis through recuperation.

Properly maintained environment:  Safe and sanitary conditions must be maintained throughout the hospital, from
the reception room to the kennel, including the outside premises.

Emergency service:  Each AAHA hospital must provide, or have access to, 24-hour emergency service for its clients.

Dental service:  Oral hygiene is as important to a pet's health as it is to a person's health.  AAHA hospitals routinely
perform teeth cleaning, extractions, and gum work.

Only the best hospitals receive AAHA Accreditation.

For excellent information on pet care and veterinary services visit the Amercian Animal Hospital Association web site.
PetDocks - AAHA Accredited
(252) 240-3885 phone • (252) 240-3540 fax • www.petdocks.com
Contact Us

Monday through Friday
8:00 am to 5:30 pm
(252) 240-3885

Walk-ins welcome
Appointments preferred

After Hours
Emergency Pet Hospital
of Craven-Carteret
(252) 444-1399