About membership

Why Join IAHAIO?

We share your commitment to advancing ethical, meaningful human–animal interactions. As the global membership body for this field, IAHAIO brings together organizations of practitioners, educators, researchers, volunteers, animal handlers  and advocates who believe we are stronger and can achieve more when we learn, collaborate and grow together

IAHAIO encourages organizations to join our growing global network and to work with IAHAIO to promote best practice in the field to enhance the health and welfare of people and animals.

What we stand for

IAHAIO works to ensure human–animal interactions are understood, respected and take place in ways that are beneficial for the well-being of both people and animals. By joining, you add your voice to a global movement shaping the future of our field.

Together, we can:

  • Set international standards
  • Shape guidelines for practice, research and education
  • Promote best practices to ensure well-being for people and animals
  • Strengthen global connections
  • Expand understanding and access to human–animal interactions

There are currently over 100 IAHAIO members in different countries around the globe. Membership is by application only, which is reviewed by the IAHAIO Board. There are two membership categories: full and affiliate. To be accepted as a member of IAHAIO, organizations need to demonstrate their commitment to IAHAIO’s missions and goals and how their work supports positive human-animal interactions and/or animal-assisted services. Agreement to the IAHAIO Membership Terms and Conditions, including sign-up to the IAHAIO White Paper, Position Statements, Declarations and International Guidelines is required, and an annual membership subscription fee is payable.

The membership subscription fee helps to support the work and activities of IAHAIO, for example, our conferences, webinars and events, the publication of our online Journal, supporting membership activities such as opportunities for networking, the development of policies, and various costs associated with administration (for example, processing of membership dues).

Member organizations enjoy a number of excellent benefits, including access to a dedicated member online forums, display of the IAHAIO Member logo and reduced rates at IAHAIO conferences and events.