Affiliate Credentials

The IAABC Affiliate credential recognizes shelter workers who have achieved a foundational level of competence in shelter work, supported by a proven understanding of the science of learning and behavior change. Affiliate credentials are open to individuals who have worked regularly in a shelter environment. The IAABC recognizes the important and diverse competencies of various specialties; trainers and behavior consultants who have not had hands-on experience in a shelter do not qualify for this credential.

Affiliate members qualify to be listed in the IAABC consultant locator and have the right to use the IAABC Affiliate logo. They are also granted an official certificate detailing their competencies.

Current Credentials

We offer the following specialty-specific credentials at the Affiliate level:

Affiliate

Shelter Behavior Affiliate (SBA)

Eligibility Requirements

We suggest:

A minimum of 200 hours experience in shelters
A working knowledge of learning science, training, and husbandry, with additional knowledge of animal management skills related to shelter work
Familiarity with dogs, cats, and other species if applicable

Fees

Application Fee: $125

Application fees are not refundable if the application is abandoned or expires.

Continuing Education Requirements

36 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every 3 years

Application requires:

Written endorsements from colleagues and a shelter supervisor

Completion of questions regarding terminology, techniques, and assessment

Written discussion of shelter-specific strategies and knowledge

Your answers should reflect your knowledge and ability as a shelter behavior professional and demonstrate your skills in working with animals in a shelter environment.

Scoring:

Applicants must receive a score of 80% or higher on the application to pass. Applicants who score below these requirements on any section of the application remain valuable Supporting members. Supporting members are welcome to retake the exam after receiving their notice. There is no waiting period for exam retakes.

How to Earn an IAABC Credential

You can view the navigation items to understand more about the requirements of each of our credentials. Or, click below for a walk-through of the credentialing process, resources for preparation, and requirements for credential maintenance.

CREDENTIALING PROCESS

Member Testimonials

Here I get support, information and training on current, evidence-based knowledge. A great community of international consultants offers great exchange on each relevant topic to support each other helping animals, their owners or even organizations that take care of animals of different species.

Sylvia Czarnecki, Certified Horse Behavior Consultant

I am proud and honored to be certified by, a member of, and educator for the IAABC. I consider the organization to be the industry standard for well-rounded, quality, ethical animal behavior information that is disseminated in a supportive, effective, collaborative environment. The IAABC works very hard to produce not only quantity of educational resources, but also quality.

Katenna Jones, Certified Dog & Cat Behavior Consultant

As a member, I get to network with experts in my field all over the world. This allows me to expand my knowledge in cat behavior as well as shelter behavior. As the feline behavior manager in an open intake shelter, this opportunity to learn from the best has allowed me to ensure the mental health and behavior needs are met for the cats in our care. The IAABC is the "go to" place for people all over the world to find experts in animal behavior. As a certified member my profile is available for the public to view. Since I earned my certification, I've seen my private business almost triple.

Lisa Stemcosky, Certified Cat Behavior Consultant

a woman with brown hair and a grey dog touch noses

IAABC has been an invaluable learning tool for both myself and staff. As a shelter professional, the webinars provide relevant and up to date information to be used in multiple formats. The online convenience allows for continuing education, minus the travel.The mentorship programs are nothing short of amazing, including the pricing . This organization is always looking forward and growing.

Amy Schindler, Shelter Behavior Affiliate