AAHA to bring veterinary conference to Portland in September

The American Animal Hospital Association will host AAHA CON 2026 in Portland, Oregon, from Sept. 17-19, drawing veterinary professionals for more than 85 hours of education and a keynote from Dr. Bertice Berry. The event also comes as newly appointed CEO Dr. Brady Beale outlines AAHA’s strategic direction and the association pushes registration for the conference.

Why it matters: - AAHA CON 2026 is designed for the full veterinary team, from client service representatives to veterinarians. - The conference offers a large education slate that can shape clinical skills, leadership and hospital operations across practices. - Portland attendees will also get a free 5-day pass for the city’s MAX Light Rail system, lowering the cost and friction of getting around.

What happened: - The American Animal Hospital Association is hosting AAHA CON 2026 in Portland, Oregon, Sept. 17-19. - The conference will be held at the Hyatt Regency Portland and the Oregon Convention Center. - AAHA is asking the broader veterinary community to register now as the event approaches. - Registration is available at aaha.org/aahacon.

The details: - This year’s theme is “Excellence is a Journey.” - The program includes more than 85 hours of continuing education across 90 sessions. - AAHA says the sessions are built for every position on the veterinary team. - The conference will feature 26 speakers. - Topics include clinical skill-building, leadership, hospital operations and client communication. - New CEO Dr. Brady Beale, VMD, DAVCO, will share insights on strategic work AAHA has undertaken over the past several months. - AAHA’s conference keynote will be delivered by Dr. Bertice Berry, a sociologist, bestselling author and speaker focused on resilience, purpose and human connection. - Every registered attendee will receive a free 5-day pass for Portland’s MAX Light Rail system. - The pass is meant to help attendees reach the Oregon Convention Center, explore downtown Portland and avoid rental car costs.

Between the lines: - AAHA is using the conference to signal a broader strategic reset under Beale’s leadership. - The theme and keynote suggest the association is framing the event as both a technical education gathering and a morale-building moment for veterinary professionals. - The travel perk points to a push to make attendance easier and more affordable.

What's next: - AAHA expects spots to continue filling as September approaches. - The association is urging prospective attendees to register before the conference sells out. - AAHA says it is continuing work to strengthen the systems that support animal health and the veterinary ecosystem.

The bottom line: - AAHA CON 2026 is positioned as a major September gathering for veterinary professionals seeking education, networking and a look at AAHA’s next phase.