Our Professional Veterinary Affiliations
At Best Friends Veterinary Medical Center, we believe great veterinary care depends on continuing education, high professional standards, and a strong connection to the veterinary community. Dr. Janelle Walker and our team are proud to be affiliated with respected local, national, and international organizations that support excellence in animal health, ethics, and compassionate care. These affiliations help keep our Portland hospital current on the latest research, techniques, and best practices for dogs and cats.
Portland Veterinary Medical Association
The Portland Veterinary Medical Association is a non-profit professional organization representing more than 400 member veterinarians and their practices. Membership connects our hospital with colleagues across the Portland metro area and supports local continuing education.
Oregon Veterinary Medical Association
The OVMA serves veterinarians in Oregon, the veterinary profession, and the public through education, public relations, and advocacy, while promoting the highest standards of animal care and professional ethics among veterinarians.
American Veterinary Medical Association
The AVMA is a not-for-profit association representing tens of thousands of veterinarians working in private and corporate practice, government, industry, academia, and uniformed services. It acts as a collective voice for its members and the veterinary profession.
Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon
The Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon is dedicated to the humane treatment of feral cats and to preventing future generations through spay and neuter programs. Dr. Walker is proud to be a cofounder of the coalition, reflecting her lifelong commitment to cats, which also shaped our dedicated cat clinic.
International Veterinary Acupuncture Society
The International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting excellence in veterinary acupuncture as an integral part of the total veterinary health care system. Our connection to IVAS supports the integrative care we provide through pet acupuncture.
American Association of Feline Practitioners
The American Association of Feline Practitioners improves the health and welfare of cats by supporting high standards of practice, continuing education, and scientific research. Its feline-friendly guidelines inform how we handle and care for cats every day.
What Our Affiliations Mean for Your Pet
These memberships aren’t just names on a wall. They influence the quality of care your pet receives, from how we approach preventive wellness care and dentistry to the safety protocols we follow during surgery and the diagnostics we use to treat medical conditions. Learn more about our team or explore our full list of veterinary services.
Affiliations FAQs
Why do veterinary affiliations matter?
Professional affiliations show a commitment to continuing education, ethical standards, and staying current with advances in veterinary medicine.
Is Dr. Walker involved with the Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon?
Yes. Dr. Walker is a cofounder of the Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon.
Do you follow feline-friendly practices?
Yes. Our affiliation with the American Association of Feline Practitioners supports the cat-friendly handling used in our dedicated cat clinic.
Is your hospital involved in the local veterinary community?
Yes. We are members of the Portland Veterinary Medical Association and the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association.
Do you offer veterinary acupuncture?
Yes. We offer pet acupuncture and integrate Traditional Chinese Medicine with conventional care.
How do affiliations improve my pet’s care?
They give our team access to continuing education, current research, and professional guidelines that shape the care we provide.
How can I learn more about your veterinary team?
Visit our Our Team page to meet Dr. Walker and our staff, or call us at (503) 892-6387.
Experience Professional, Compassionate Care
Call Best Friends Veterinary Medical Center at (503) 892-6387 to schedule an appointment in Portland, OR.