APA Approval for Pet Businesses & Services
"I was truly impressed with the thoroughness of the testing that the APA
did and I have been told by several people in the trade that it
is very meaningful to gain their accreditation. I'm now using their
approval logo in all of my advertising and marketing materials and I
think it serves well as one more vote of confidence to potential
buyers. From my experience, I would highly recommend the APA testing
and approval process."
Denise Woods
Snap 2 It, LLC
A letter in 2008 from an angry pet owner made a big change for us
here at the APA. This woman had a serious problem with a pet care
business she had recently used. One paragraph stood out and called us to
action.
"Even
with some recent government regulations, you cannot tell if a business owner
is kind to the pets in their care, is a fair and honest business person
or that their facility is a safe and humane environment for
my pet. What are you doing about it?"
In 2010, this woman, and the many others, concerns were confirmed.
In a 2010 poll, 27% of pet owners said
they would not take their pet to any groomer, kennel, trainer or use a
pet sitter because they were "unsure if their pet would be treated
humanely".
Since 1991 APA Members have turned to us to recommend products,
services and facilities. This is not something we have taken lightly.
APA Members know they can count on us for an unbiased position on all
pet issues. We do not accept corporate donations or sell
advertising at our web sites or newsletters; this allows us to remain
unbiased in our decisions.
The Approval Department was made to meet this demand for all pet
owners. The APA's
ethics are the highest in the industry and this department is a perfect
example. Our approval fee is solely to cover the process of approval,
and approval is never guaranteed. We encourage feedback from all
consumers and every feedback form is personally addressed by an APA
Employee.
The only
Business
Approval that includes Humane Treatment of Animals,
Cleanliness and
Safety of Facility AND
Ethical Business Practices of the Owner and
Employees.
APA Approval Package & Benefits
APA 5 Star Approval provides a complete inspection of the facility and
processing of the application and references. Ongoing feedback is monitored
to be sure the approval is current and feedback is passed along to
the business owner to help them better their business operations.
You receive a start up package with APA 5 Star Approved Artwork, APA
5 Star
Approved Stickers, Feedback Cards & APA 5 Star Approved Plaque.
You are enrolled in the "APA Business Sense" program. This
includes:
- A listing in the APA "Recent Approvals" Directory, which can
link to existing web pages. Your business will be rotated on the
page throughout the year.
- 2x4 High Quality Outdoor Banner
- APA Mediation for assistance with customer complaints or
employee issues.
(Avoid lawsuits!) One free mediation per year and 50% off any
additional mediations.
- Buying Power - Available after June 1, 2011, discounts at
suppliers, and assistance purchasing business equipment.
- PLUS all feedback is passed along to the facility for their
benefit.
About the Approval
Process
Apply Now
Approval Package
Startup Package
2x4 Banner
Please note: An inspection fee of $125 can be
assessed if there is not an APA approved representative in your area.
