Cessnock Veterinary Centre and Hospital Practice Manager, Renae Bentley, said the accreditation ensures the practice is not only compliant with the stringent standards set by the ASAV, but goes above and beyond, setting an example in all aspects of their business for others to follow.

The ASAV program recognises companion animal practices that achieve the highest levels of quality health care and practice management in innovative and state-of-the-art facilities.

Accredited hospitals set a benchmark to inspire other small animal practitioners when assessing their own facilities and standards. Accredited hospitals also enjoy recognition from clients for the excellent standards of care they offer. 

Renae said the recognition that the accreditation provides is worth the substantial effort involved. “From the beginning we knew it would take two years of hard work to achieve accreditation. We had to submit surgical and medical cases for review and reassess all management procedures within the practice. All staff had to be interviewed by outside professionals and then finally the hospital had to pass a stringent physical inspection,” she said.

Renae said while the accreditation gives clients more confidence in the practice, it also helps the practice itself. “It’s been an amazing team building process while we put the application together and is great morale booster to finally receive that recognition,” she said. “It also allows us to show our expertise and the high level of our standards, allowing us to recruit the right people into our team”. Currently only 11 other practices in NSW have received the ASAV’s “Hospital of Excellence” accreditation which has proven a fantastic tool for professional development and education for all veterinary hospitals involved.