PetVet365 has made history as the first veterinary hospital network in the United States to earn the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation. Awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), the certification covers eight PetVet365 locations across the greater Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania metropolitan area.
The designation ensures that neurodivergent, autistic, and sensory-sensitive pet owners—along with their families—can access inclusive, supportive, and low-stress veterinary care environments.
Executive Commentary & Clinical Vision
“I am incredibly proud that my fellow veterinarian owners across Pittsburgh embraced this commitment and worked together to make our hospitals more welcoming, understanding, and accessible to everyone in our community. Veterinary visits can be stressful for both pets and their owners, but for autistic individuals or those with sensory sensitivities, the environment itself can present unexpected challenges. Earning this designation allows us to better serve all members of our community with empathy, respect, and tailored care.”
— Dr. Ashley Smith-Miller, Veterinarian Owner, PetVet365 South Hills
“IBCCES is thrilled to partner with PetVet365 to establish a new benchmark for accessibility in veterinary healthcare,” said Myron Pincomb, Board Chairman of IBCCES. “By prioritizing staff training and sensory-friendly care, PetVet365 is removing significant barriers for autistic individuals and their families, ensuring that every pet owner feels confident, supported, and understood during clinical visits.”
Certified Locations & Operational Framework
To achieve the CAC designation, at least 80% of client-facing staff across all eight participating hospitals completed specialized, evidence-based training in autism and sensory sensitivity awareness
Certified Hospital Network Overview
Facility Location |
Region |
Certification Standard |
Key Features & Adaptations |
Cranberry |
North Suburbs |
IBCCES CAC Standard |
Sensory kits, low-stimulation rooms, quiet check-ins |
Fox Chapel |
North East |
IBCCES CAC Standard |
Communication aids, sensory tools, trained staff |
North Fayette |
West Suburbs |
IBCCES CAC Standard |
Noise-reduction equipment, tailored appointment flow |
Ross Park |
North Suburbs |
IBCCES CAC Standard |
Adaptive communication, quiet waiting options |
Shadyside |
Pittsburgh City |
IBCCES CAC Standard |
Fidget tools, sensory-friendly appointment scheduling |
South Hills |
South Suburbs |
IBCCES CAC Standard |
Customized care plans, dedicated sensory kits |
Wilkins Township |
East Suburbs |
IBCCES CAC Standard |
Staff trained in sensory processing differences |
Strip District |
Pittsburgh City |
IBCCES CAC Standard |
Noise-canceling headphones, flexible exam options |
Addressing Sensory & Communication Barriers in Vet Care
Veterinary clinics present complex sensory environments—bright lights, sudden noises, overlapping odors, and unpredictable animal interactions can lead to sensory overload for neurodivergent individuals.
By partnering with IBCCES, PetVet365 introduced structural and operational adjustments across its facilities:
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Dedicated Sensory Kits: Equipped with noise-reducing headphones, fidget tools, visual communication cards, and tactile supports available during visits.
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Predictable Appointment Workflows: Structured appointment flows designed to minimize wait times, reduce unexpected sensory triggers, and offer flexible exam setups.
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Staff Awareness & Communication: Training focused on understanding non-verbal cues, sensory processing differences, and individualized communication strategies for caregivers and pet owners.
