Statement of Purpose

  

The Alliance of Modern Pet Professionals seeks to organize and unite its members through the highest standards of professional ethics and conduct. This code affirms a collaborative agreement of acceptable standards of practice and operation for members.

 

 

Statement of Values

 

1 Humane Methodology 

 

With genuine insight into the art and science of learning, our members choose methods that not only reflect the most recent and accurate scientific research, but also emphasize relationship and teamwork.

 

1.1   AMPP members must subscribe to LIMA (Less Invasive, Minimally Aversive) and low-stress handling philosophy. Our professionals will always prioritize the use of positive reinforcement over techniques based in fear, pain and intimidation.

 

1.2   AMPP expressly discourages the use of electronic collars, prong collars, choke chains or training aids that cause physical or emotional harm
 

1.3   AMPP members commit to using handling methods that prioritize minimizing stress and discomfort for the animal during examinations, husbandry (grooming), and general pet care

 

1.4   AMPP members recognize the importance of choice as a basic biological need and their handling of the animals in their care reflect this value

 

1.5  AMPP members strive to minimize the use of punishment by focusing on teaching the animal what to do rather than what not to do

 

1.6  In accordance with modern research, AMPPP dismisses the validity of dominance theory and its impact on behavior modification practices. Members will refrain from using force and coercion techniques under the name of dominance training

 

 

2 Progressive Educational Culture

 

Continuing education is a critical aspect of being a professional, there is always something more to be learned. Our members are committed to both growing their knowledge base but also sharing information with their colleagues through collaboration and discussion.

 

2.1   AMPP members are encouraged to interact with one another, share knowledge, and consult colleagues when faced with a difficult case

 

2.2   AMPP members should participate in continued education such as attending seminars, enrolling in online courses, reading source material, and academic texts

 

 

3 Professionalism

 

Our network of professional trainers, veterinarians, pet sitters, dog walkers, groomers, shelter personnel and volunteers believe in modeling integrity and strong standards of welfare and safety.

 

3.1   AMPP seeks to inspire a cooperative culture where colleagues and competitors are treated

with kindness and respect, regardless of any differences of opinion.  Members should always remain respectful, even if in a disagreement, and refrain from escalation or personal attacks.

 

3.2   AMPP members may share information about their experiences with other trainers/businesses but must refrain from public defamation of any person, professional, or company.

 

3.3   AMPP members will not share personal information or identifiable characteristics of clients without expressed consent from the client

 

3.4   When collaborating with other AMPP professionals, members should maintain an open line of communication and feedback to ensure continuity of care

 

3.5   AMPP members will respect clients’ choices regarding training, care, and management, while gently educating about the potential consequences

 

3.6   AMPP members participating in public speaking roles, working tables, or volunteering at special events must exemplify the core values of AMPP

 

3.7   AMPP members will reserve any rants or anecdotal complaints for private discussions. Closed social media groups and events are offered to share ideas, seek useful resources, and connect with each other in a positive and productive way

 

3.8   AMPP members should exercise decorum when posting to accessible personal social media accounts and public groups

 

3.9   AMPP members shall respect and maintain the confidentiality of the group. Members may not share any written or verbal details exchanged during AMPP events, meetings, or discussions on the closed social media group

 

 

4 Accountability and Transparency

 

As professionals within the pet care field, members are required to follow the highest standards of business and professional ethics.

           

4.1   AMPP members are appropriately insured, licensed and/or certified for their field

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4.2   AMPP members are transparent with clients about how their dog will be handled while under the member’s care and should thoroughly discuss details about all interactions before they take place

 

4.3   AMPP members will not offer outcomes-based guarantees regarding their sessions

 

4.4   AMPP members are expected to always truthfully represent their qualifications, experience, and possible outcomes

 

4.5   AMPP members should be mindful of their own capabilities and take cases that are in their realm of expertise. Members may submit a written request to the board for assistance in finding an appropriate referral if something comes up that is beyond their skill set

 

4.6   AMPP members shall refrain from offering advice, recommendations, or diagnosis regarding topics beyond the boundaries of their individual expertise

 

4.7   AMPP members shall not offer financial incentives to clients in exchange for positive reviews or ratings

           

 

 

 

Equity

 

Members are accepted without discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, gender, religion, sexual orientation, marital/familial status, disability or physical limitation.

 

 

Conflict Resolution

 

If a problem arises members should go directly to the board with a written account of the issue submitted via email (pittsburghpetprofessionals@gmail.com).

 

 

Enforcement of the Code of Ethics

 

AMPP reserves the right to revoke membership on a case by case basis. Membership fees will not be refunded.