Our Palisades Veterinary Hospital team is committed to providing your pet with the highest level of veterinary care. All our team members are passionate lifelong learners who continuously look for ways to enhance our skills and improve your pet’s experience. Continuing education (CE) is required for veterinarians to maintain their licensure. However, a small group of driven professionals has chosen to go above and beyond in their training to raise the veterinary excellence bar. Dr. Hessian and Dr. Juetten are both members of the Arizona Veterinary Medical Association’s (AzVMA’s) distinguished Arizona Academy of Veterinary Practice, an achievement shared with a select group of dedicated Arizona veterinarians. Learn about the Arizona Academy of Veterinary Practice, how a veterinarian earns this designation, and what membership means for your pet’s standard of care. 

Arizona Veterinary Medical Association 

Established in 1941, the AzVMA is a professional organization with more than 3,000 veterinary professional members. AzVMA’s mission is “to promote excellence in veterinary medicine by providing a forum for the veterinary community to address issues related to animal and human health and welfare, education, legislation, public information, and practice management through active involvement of its members.” AzVMA represents veterinarians in Arizona and works with the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) on federal legislative and regulatory issues that influence animal health, public health, and the veterinary profession. AzVMA also provides a robust CE program, including the Arizona Academy of Veterinary Practice, for veterinarians and staff. In addition, the organization hosts annual state conferences and wellness programs. 

Arizona Veterinary Medical Association’s Arizona Academy of Veterinary Practice

Veterinarians in the State of Arizona can apply for membership in the Arizona Academy of Veterinary Practice. To qualify for the academy, an individual must go above and beyond the state requirements for veterinary licensure by completing a rigorous series of CE courses. While the state requires veterinarians to complete 20 CE hours during a two-year period to qualify for relicensing, AzVMA Arizona Academy of Veterinary Practice members must complete at least 50 hours in one year if they are a small animal veterinarian and at least 40 hours in one year if they are a large animal veterinarian.

How academy membership benefits your pet

Our team of lifelong learners strives for continual improvement, which ultimately benefits our patients. By staying updated on the latest advancements, research, and techniques, we expand our knowledge, enhance our expertise, improve our skills and, and deliver exceptional care. Our team’s membership in the AzVMA Arizona Academy of Veterinary Practice benefits your pet in the following ways:

  • High-quality care — You can rest easy, knowing that your pet is receiving the best possible care from knowledgeable and experienced veterinary professionals.
  • Cutting-edge medicine — Veterinary medicine, protocols, and diagnostics evolve quickly, and the additional education hours our staff receives ensures your pet receives the safest and most effective treatment. 
  • Enhanced expertise — Academy members build strong professional networks and collaborate with other veterinary professionals throughout the field, which enhances our expertise. 
  • A commitment to excellence — The time and dedication necessary for the CE requirements’ completion are a testament to a veterinarian’s passion, drive, and commitment to excellence. We are proud of our veterinarians who voluntarily hold themselves to this high pet care standard. 

American Animal Hospital Association accreditation + Academy membership = Enhanced care 

Going above and beyond the norm is how our team approaches everything we do. Not only are Dr. Hessian and Dr. Juetten esteemed Arizona Academy of Veterinary Practice

members, but our hospital is also accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). This designation is also entirely voluntary, with a 900-point evaluation process and regular on-site assessments. To receive AAHA accreditation, a veterinary hospital must fulfill the following requirements:

  • Meets or exceeds more than 900 veterinary standards beyond standard state licensing requirements.
  • Undergoes an evaluation every three years to ensure they’re meeting new and existing standards.
  • Demonstrates an excellent level of pet care and client service.
  • Continues to improve in all areas, including client care and practice operation.

We are proud to hold ourselves to this high veterinary care standard. You can rest assured that your pet will receive the most effective, up-to-date standard of veterinary care when you walk through our doors. Schedule your pet’s wellness examination with our Palisades Veterinary Hospital team, and experience our commitment to excellence in action.