The purpose of the american animal hospital association is to enhance the abilities of veterinarians to provide quality medical care to companion animals, to successfully conduct their practices and maintain their facilities with high standards of excellence, and to meet the public's needs as they relate to animals.

Meetings and education: activities to improve the quality of companion animal veterinary care, to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of animal practices and for professional development of the entire veterinary staff including new developments and industry trends, processes, and products. publications and advertising: activities including various publications for the veterinary professional as well as consumers, including an industry recognized veterinary magazine and a scientific journal. membership services: activities to further the understanding of medical and practice issues affecting veterinarians and other veterinary professionals. Also includes actvities to recruit veterinary school students, as well as promotion of the profession to the public.