Australian Canine Rehabilitation Association (ACRA)
Code of Conduct
Effective Date: 16 th June 2025
Version: 1.0

1. Introduction
The Australian Canine Rehabilitation Association (ACRA) is committed to promoting the highest standards
of care, professionalism, and ethical behaviour in the field of canine rehabilitation. This Code of Conduct
outlines the principles and standards that all members are expected to uphold.

2. Purpose
This Code serves to:

  • Establish clear expectations for professional conduct among ACRA members.
  • Ensure the welfare and well-being of animals under care.
  • Foster trust and transparency between practitioners and clients.
  • Promote collaboration and continuous improvement within the profession.

3. Scope
This Code applies to all ACRA members, including individual practitioners, clinics, and affiliated
organisations involved in canine rehabilitation across Australia.

4. Professional Standards
4.1 Professionalism

  • Integrity: Act with honesty and integrity in all professional interactions.
  • Competence: Maintain and enhance professional knowledge and skills through continuous education and training.
  • Accountability: Take responsibility for actions and decisions, ensuring they serve the best interests of animals and their owners.

4.2 Animal Welfare

  • Humane Treatment: Treat all animals with kindness, respect, and compassion, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being.
  • Safety: Prioritise the safety of animals by using techniques and equipment that minimise stress and discomfort.
  • Individualised Care: Provide personalised rehabilitation plans tailored to each animal specific needs.

4.3 Client Relations

  • Transparency: Communicate openly and honestly with clients, providing clear information about treatment options, costs, and expected outcomes.
  • Confidentiality: Respect the privacy of clients and their animals by safeguarding all personal and medical information.
  • Respect: Treat clients with respect and courtesy, fostering a positive and supportive environment.

4.4 Collaboration and Teamwork

  • Interdisciplinary Cooperation: Collaborate with veterinarians and other professionals to ensure comprehensive care for animals.
  • Supportive Community: Support and mentor fellow members, sharing knowledge and resources to advance the field of canine rehabilitation.

4.5 Ethical Practice

  • Honesty in Advertising: Represent qualifications, services, and outcomes truthfully in all marketing
    and communications.
  • Conflict of Interest: Avoid conflicts of interest and disclose any potential conflicts to clients and
    colleagues. For example, when a financial or personal relationship may influence professional
    decisions.
  • Professional Boundaries: Maintain appropriate professional boundaries with clients and colleagues,
    avoiding any behaviour that could be perceived as inappropriate, unethical, or outside the scope of
    practice.

4.6 Continuous Improvement

  • Feedback and Evaluation: Seek and act upon feedback from clients and peers to improve services
    and practices.
  • Evidence-Based Innovation: Stay informed about the latest research and advancements in canine
    rehabilitation, incorporating evidence-based practices into work.

5. Compliance and Enforcement
All members are expected to adhere to this Code of Conduct. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary
action, including suspension or termination of membership, as determined by the ACRA Ethics Committee.

6. Review and Amendments
This Code will be reviewed biennially to ensure it remains current with industry standards and practices.
Amendments will be communicated to all members and will take effect upon publication.

7. Acknowledgment
By maintaining membership with ACRA, members acknowledge and agree to uphold the principles and
standards outlined in this Code of Conduct.