Facility Accreditation supports safe patient care

The accreditation of a veterinary facility demonstrates a commitment by a licensed veterinarian to provide a professional environment for safe patient care. All facilities where veterinary medicine is practised in Ontario must meet the accreditation standards established by the College of Veterinarians of Ontario.

All veterinary facilities are inspected periodically to ensure the environment and essential equipment required for patient care are present. Veterinary facilities are inspected for equipment requirements; proper patient records; safe drug storage; a medical reference library; as well as orderliness and infection control. Veterinary facilities that meet the accreditation requirements receive a Certificate of Accreditation. 

The Facility Accreditation Emblem is provided to veterinary facilities which have received their Certificate of Accreditation in Ontario. The emblem may be displayed on the facility’s website, and in their own social media sites.

When you see a facility displaying the College of Veterinarians of Ontario Facility Accreditation Emblem, you can be confident:

• The veterinary facility provides a professional environment for safe patient care
• The facility meets the Accreditation Standards for Veterinary Facilities in Ontario
• The equipment is appropriate for the services the patient will receive
• The facility has been inspected by veterinarian inspectors

Ontario veterinarians demonstrate their commitment to veterinary health care by meeting the accreditation requirements and supporting the inspection program established by the College. Anyone receiving services from a veterinary facility can have confidence the facility provides a professional environment for safe, patient care and has met facility accreditation standards.  Accreditation enhances quality of care by requiring that veterinarians review their facilities and ensure they continually meet standards.

The College’s Facility Accreditation Emblem is only available for use by the College of Veterinarians of Ontario and CVO-accredited facilities.  It may not be used by any other entity without prior consent from the College of Veterinarians of Ontario.