NAS Whidbey Island’s Veterinary Treatment Facility (VTF) has received accreditation following a comprehensive evaluation by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).

Only 15 percent of all small animal veterinary practices in the U.S. have achieved accreditation by the AHAA. The evaluation includes a quality assessment review of the hospital’s facility, medical equipment, practice methods and pet health care management.

“NAS Whidbey Island VTF belongs to a select group of practices that are committed to meeting the standard of veterinary excellence,” said Gregg Takashima, DVM, AAHA president. “AAHA hospitals pass a stringent evaluation of over 900 standards covering patient care, client service and medical protocols. By attaining accreditation, NAS Whidbey Island VTF is demonstrating its dedication to offering the best care to its patients and clients.”

Established in 1933, the American Animal Hospital Association is the only organization that accredits veterinary practices throughout the U.S. and Canada for dedication to high standards of veterinary care. Approximately 3,200 AAHA-accredited practices pass regular reviews of AAHA’s stringent accreditation standards that cover patient care, client service and medical protocols.

According to U.S. Army Capt. Andrew Kay, Whidbey Branch Chief, preparing for the AAHA Accreditation took about nine months while the actual inspection only lasted about six hours.

“What the accreditation process does for the clinic is help us embrace and offer the best in medical care for pets,” said Kay. “That means we offer the best medicine, patient care and administrative practices.”

The vet clinics at NAS Whidbey Island and Joint Base Lewis McChord are the only two accredited military clinics in Washington State.

NAS Whidbey Island VTF, located at 260 West Pioneer Way, building 13, can be reached online at http://www.navylifepnw.com/site/354/Whidbey-Vet.aspx and by phone (360) 257-2001.