Join nearly 300 CAWAs from the US, Canada, and Australia!

Distinguish your skills and up your game! Show your commitment to high standards and ethical practice in the field of animal welfare, become a Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA). The CAWA program is designed to:

• Distinguish the knowledge, skills and achievements of high-level managers working in animal welfare and protection; to support best practices within the profession
• Broaden the understanding among those making hiring decisions and the general public of the specialized qualifications required to successfully lead non-profit organizations and governmental agencies dedicated to animal care. 

Complete details about the program can be found in the Applicant Guide.

Read about The Great CAWA Throwdown.

Read this blog from Jim Tedford, CAWA, about how the CAWA exam has grown stronger.

Read an Ode to the New CAWA Exam by Brian August, CAWA, who shares the thought process behind the new exam.

Read The CAWA Credential: Now More Accessible and Inclusive Than Ever by Phil Nichols, CAWA, about how the new exam questions are country-neutral and accessible to animal welfare professionals worldwide.

Add “CAWA Preferred" or "CAWA Required” to your recruitment materials for all leadership opportunities!

Hiring a CEO or Executive Director who has earned the Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA) credential:

• Ensures your organization and the Board of Directors that the individual has well rounded experience and unique animal welfare knowledge to support your agency’s mission and long term growth
• Supports your fundraising goals; donors who meet with a CAWA understand the Board of Directors’ commitment to use their money wisely
• Assures your staff that their leader has the highest skill level
• Qualified individuals meet rigorous standards set by The Association's peer professionals

High minimum standards are set for those who sit for the exam:

• Candidates meet strict eligibility requirements in leadership, management, and animal welfare experience.
• The Association develops and manages the CAWA program in accordance with globally accepted accreditation standards and best practices for personnel certification programs. 
• The exam is fair, practical, and reflects industry competency standards.
• Current CAWAs are required to continue their education through leadership, professional involvement, and formal coursework.

Take the CAWA Eligibility Quiz

Download our current Applicant Guide

Submit the CAWA Application

Download Making the Case for CAWA Support

Questions about the CAWA credential and exam? Contact certification@theaawa.org

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