Joining the IAABC
The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants believes that high-quality, science-based behavior modification for companion animals should be accessible to everyone.
We bring together trainers, behavior consultants, behaviorists, shelter and rescue workers
If you work in animal behavior, joining the IAABC demonstrates your commitment to excellence in your field.
Membership Criteria
The IAABC accepts individuals age 18 and older as well as organizations as members. There is no minimum experience or knowledge level to become a member. Wherever you are in your journey to a career in animal behavior, the IAABC will meet you.
Standards of Practice
All our members are bound by the Joint Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics, which include a commitment to using LIMA, the Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive effective intervention when working with animals and their human companions.
Before joining, please read our LIMA definition and guidelines to better understand this requirement and to self-assess whether you are in compliance. For questions about LIMA or membership criteria related to it, please email our Ethics Team.
Before you join, you will be asked to agree to:
- IAABC Membership Terms and Conditions
- LIMA and our LIMA Addendum
- The Joint Code of Ethics
- IAABC Examination Plagiarism Policy
Ready to sign up?
Membership Types
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Supporting: Most people join the IAABC as Supporting Members. This basic professional membership gets you access to all IAABC resources as well as permission to use the Supporting Member logo and to apply for credentialing examinations. Read more about Supporting Membership here.
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Organizational: Businesses and other organizations that are active in the practice or education of animal behavior may join as Organizational Members. This "umbrella" membership allows multiple individual memberships to be purchased for a discounted fee by the organization, renewable annually. It also includes special perks to help you raise the profile of your organization. Read more about Organizational Membership here.
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Student: If you are in an academic or professional program that is at least 6 months long and you plan to work professionally in the field of animal behavior, you are entitled to a discounted one-year Student Membership, renewable as a regular Supporting Membership. Read more about Student Membership here.
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Credentialed: Supporting members may earn training and behavior credentials by passing IAABC credentialing examinations. Members who earn a credential receive a title designation, a listing in the consultant locator, and new volunteer opportunities such as serving as a scorer for others. Read more about Credentialed Membership here.