Strengthening Standards Through Collaboration!
Announced November 17, 2025

As part of our ongoing collaboration to strengthen the animal training and behavior profession, we’re excited to share updates to the Joint Standards of Practice (JSOP) and invite you to celebrate this progress with us.

Since its founding in 2018, the JSOP has united leading organizations in the animal training and behavior field to promote excellence through science-based, humane, and ethical practices. This coalition represents the first industry-wide effort to develop shared standards that foster professional collaboration and prioritize animal well-being.

Over time, the JSOP has been updated and expanded to reflect the field’s continued growth and commitment to professional integrity. The following organizations currently endorse the Joint Standards of Practice:

● The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
● The Association for Professional Dog Training (APDT)
● IAABC Foundation (IAABCF)
● Karen Pryor Academy (KPA)
● Assistance Dogs International (ADI)
● Grisha Stewart Academy
● Science Matters Academy of Animal Behavior
● Understand Horses
● Victoria Stilwell Academy (VSA)

Together, these organizations have committed to a shared ethical framework that integrates the latest understanding of behavior, learning, and animal welfare. Recent updates ensure the document continues to align with advances in training practices, ethics, and the principles of animal well-being.

Looking ahead, the JSOP coalition will continue refining and strengthening these shared standards, while inviting additional organizations to join as signatories. Each new collaboration helps unify and elevate our profession, creating consistent, transparent expectations for animal behavior and training practitioners worldwide.

While individual organizations may maintain additional standards, the JSOP serves as a common foundation that enhances collective credibility, fosters public trust, and supports best practices across the industry.

A formal process for feedback is planned for the new year. Together, we will continue building a stronger, more cohesive professional community — one grounded in science, compassion, and collaboration.

Warm regards,
The JSOP Coalition

Note: at the GSA we have additional ethical agreements, and the JSOP makes a great foundation. Please see our Code of Conduct for CBATIs and other professionals who want to be listed in our Empowered Animals directory.