Independent
Certification
FOR PET CARE PROFESSIONALS
The Professional Animal Care Certification Council (PACCC) is the pet care industry's only independent, third-party certification body. Our exams verify real knowledge in animal health, safety, and behavior so pet parents know who they can trust.
44 States
AND PROVINCES
Est. 2015
3rd PARTY CERTIFIED
3 Levels
OF CERTIFICATION
Verifed
PUBLIC DIRECTORY
Pet Care Pros
Prove what you know and stand out for it.
Anyone can open a pet care business. PACCC certification shows clients, employers, and insurers that you've passed a rigorous, independently administered exam in animal care, health, and safety — and that you maintain your knowledge with continuing education.
Pet Parents
Know who's caring for your family member.
When you hand over the leash, you're trusting someone with a member of your family. PACCC-certified professionals have passed an independent exam in animal care, health, and safety, and keep their knowledge current through continuing education. Search our member directory to find one.
Certification Matters
Anyone can open a pet care business.
Not everyone can prove they're qualified.
In most of North America, no license, degree, or training is required to open a boarding, daycare, grooming, or pet sitting business. The industry is growing fast. Pet injuries and deaths at unqualified facilities make headlines every year.
PACCC was founded in 2015 by pet care industry leaders to bring what other professions have long had: independent, third-party certification. Not a certificate for attending a course. Not a badge you can buy. A psychometrically validated exam, education and experience prerequisites, veterinary references, a code of ethics, and required continuing education.
Three certifications. One standard.
Choose the level that matches your role today:
CPACP
Certified Professional
Animal Care Provider
For the people hands-on with animals every day. Covers animal behavior, body language, health and first aid, sanitation, and safe handling in group and individual care settings.
CPACM
Certified Professional
Animal Care Manager
For those running daily operations: supervising staff, managing protocols, and handling emergencies. Builds on Provider-level knowledge with team and facility management.
CPACO
Certified Professional
Animal Care Operator
For owners and executives responsible for the whole business: risk management, regulatory compliance, staffing, facility design, and crisis response.
Supported by leaders in the pet care industry
PACCC is a nonprofit council run by industry volunteers. Donations fund exam development, pet-parent education, and the push for higher standards industry-wide.