Verified PRO
The CPCP standard for legitimate, insured Canadian pet care businesses, with an earnable Accredited PRO designation for members who hold recognized credentials.
What CPCP Verified Pro Means
Verified PRO is the core CPCP membership standard. To hold this badge, a member must:
- Operate as a legitimate Canadian business (sole proprietorship with registered trade name OR operating under the owner’s legal name, partnership, or incorporated)
- Hold current business insurance
- Have been actively operating for at least 2 years
- Maintain basic written policies, procedures, and emergency protocols.
- Agree to the CPCP Code of Ethics
- Remain in good standing with no unresolved concerns
What Verified PROs get
>> Verified PRO badge for use in your marketing
Public directory listing
>> All Pathway benefits: Maple, Marketing Toolkit, HR Q&A, webinars, Sit/Stay/Recap, partner discounts
>> Featured in CPCP content and partner amplification
>> Member visibility and referral opportunities
Verified PRO
$288 /Annually ($24/mo)
- Directory Listing
- Business Readiness Program
- Insurance Required
- Active Accreditation Required
- CEUs Required
- Time-Limited
- Badge
Accredited PRO
$288 /Annually ($24/mo)
- Directory Listing
- Business Readiness Program
- Insurance Required
- Active Accreditation Required
- CEUs Required
- Time-Limited
- Badge
Earned recognition, no extra cost
Verified PROs who hold an active professional accreditation and complete six CPCP CEUs per year earn the Accredited PRO designation — displayed as a gold-star accent on your Verified PRO badge and directory listing. Same annual dues. Earned, not purchased.
HOW TO EARN ACCREDITED PRO
- Be a Verified PRO in good standing
- Hold at least one active, current accreditation from the CPCP Approved Accreditations list
- Complete six CPCP CEUs (live webinars) each membership year
- Submit proof at your annual renewal
What Accredited Pros Additionally Get
- Gold-star Accredited PRO designation on badge and listing
- Top placement in the public directory
- Accredited PRO annual roundtable (members only)
- Printable and digital certificate for display
IMPORTANT CLARIFICATION
CPCP is not a certifying body. We don’t grant certifications — we recognize and verify the credentials our members have earned through established certifying bodies such as CCPDT, PACCC, IAABC, Karen Pryor Academy, Canadian Professional Pet Stylists, PSI, NAPPS, and others. See our full Approved Accreditations list.
All CPCP Verified Pro's Have Agreed to the Code of Ethics
1. Animal Welfare & Safety
Prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of all animals in our care.
Provide humane, respectful, and science-based handling of all pets, using positive, ethical methods that prioritize the physical and emotional well-being of the animals in our care.
Never use or condone abusive, negligent, or harmful practices.
Ensure pets have access to clean water, appropriate shelter, and enrichment as needed.
Monitor animal behaviour for signs of distress, illness, or discomfort and take appropriate action.
Adhere to all municipal, provincial, and federal animal welfare laws.
2. Professionalism & Ongoing Education
Commit to ongoing education and professional development to improve skills and stay updated on industry best practices.
Seek additional training in areas such as animal behaviour, first aid, and species-specific care.
Maintain proper insurance, licensing, and certifications as required by law.
Present ourselves in a professional, responsible, and courteous manner at all times.
3. Honesty, Integrity & Transparency
Provide accurate and truthful information to clients regarding services, pricing, and policies.
Be transparent about our qualifications, experience, and any limitations of our services.
Report any concerns about a pet’s health, behaviour, or well-being honestly and promptly to the owner.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date client records.
4. Respect for Clients & Their Property
Treat all clients with respect, kindness, and professionalism.
Maintain client confidentiality and never disclose private information without consent.
Respect and protect client property, ensuring all keys, access codes, and home security details are handled responsibly.
Arrive on time, fulfill all agreed-upon services, and communicate proactively with clients regarding any changes.
5. Ethical Business Practices
Operate fairly and ethically, ensuring all services are delivered as promised.
Avoid conflicts of interest and do not engage in deceptive or unfair business practices.
Price services fairly, respecting the value of professional pet care.
Collaborate with fellow pet care professionals, fostering a supportive industry rather than undermining competitors.
6. Respect for Fellow Professionals
Support and encourage professionalism across the pet care industry.
Avoid publicly criticizing or disparaging fellow professionals.
Seek to resolve any disputes within the industry in a fair and respectful manner.
7. Legal & Ethical Compliance
Abide by all applicable municipal, provincial, and federal regulations related to pet care services.
Adhere to ethical advertising and marketing standards.
Ensure all employees or contractors uphold these ethical standards.