Our Ethics

The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants believes that ethics in animal behavior consulting involves several key areas, including animal welfare, professional conduct, education, and compliance with applicable laws. As an international organization, the IAABC recognizes that cultural values and practices around animals vary. We support our members in promoting clear, high ethical standards and best practices across the profession.

All IAABC members and credential holders must follow the Joint Standards of Practice and the Professional Code of Ethics adopted in 2018. These standards build public trust in animal behavior consulting as a respected profession. The IAABC educates members on how to uphold these standards and enforces them through our ethics complaint process. All new members must read and agree to these requirements before joining.

Read our Professional Code of Ethics

Complaints of Ethical Misconduct

The IAABC holds its members and credential holders to high standards of professionalism. To protect the public, our members, and the integrity of our credentials, we review complaints made against current or former IAABC members and credential holders.

Anyone found in violation of the Code of Ethics may face sanctions. These may include a letter of reprimand, corrective action, suspension, or termination of membership or credentials, depending on the severity of the violation.

Learn more about our Ethics Complaint Process and file a complaint