Level Up Your Bird Knowledge: Inside the Pet Advocacy Network’s Certified Avian Specialist Program

Whether you’re a passionate bird owner, an aspiring avian professional, or a retailer who wants to elevate the standard of care you provide, education is one of the most powerful tools you can invest in. That’s why we’re excited to shine a spotlight on an outstanding resource from our friends at the Pet Advocacy Network (PAN): the Certified Avian Specialist (CAS) program.

This nationally recognized certification blends expert-backed information with practical guidance to help anyone—from hobbyists to seasoned professionals—build deeper knowledge, confidence, and credibility in bird care.

What is the Pet Advocacy Network?

Formerly known as PIJAC, the Pet Advocacy Network has been the leading voice for responsible pet care for more than 50 years. Their mission is simple yet impactful: to champion pet choice and support responsible pet professionals with expertise and integrity.

PAN’s work spans advocacy, education, collaboration with veterinarians and animal experts, and ensuring that pets and the people who care for them are supported through balanced, science-based policy. The organization’s history is rooted in responding to real issues affecting pets—from disease management in the 1960s aquatics trade to today’s efforts around welfare standards, invasive species, and pet-store regulations.

Today, PAN’s vision centers on a future where people have more opportunities to enjoy the companionship of healthy, well-cared-for animals, and where responsible pet professionals are recognized as trusted partners in ensuring animal well-being.

What Is the Certified Avian Specialist (CAS) Program?

The CAS program is PAN’s premier bird-focused certification, designed for anyone who wants to take their avian knowledge to the next level. It’s part of the organization’s larger Certified Companion Animal Caretaker curriculum—widely considered one of the most comprehensive educational programs in the pet industry. Here are the general steps involved in obtaining a certification:

Apply and Receive Your Manual

You’ll receive a digital manual packed with chapters on bird care, maintenance, species identification, behavior, nutrition, and veterinary basics.

Study at Your Own Pace

The program is self-guided, making it accessible whether you’re a full-time retailer, breeder, veterinarian, or a passionate bird hobbyist looking to expand your knowledge.

Complete the Final Examination

After you submit your exam, PAN will grade it and issue your certification if you pass.

Stay Current with Recertification

Certifications must be renewed every three years—ensuring that CAS holders stay up-to-date with evolving best practices, science, and welfare standards.

Completing the Avian Modules shows a strong commitment to understanding birds’ unique needs and to upholding professionalism within the avian community. The certification program is $75 for PAN members and $95 for non-members.

Why the CAS Program is Valuable

Bird care is constantly evolving as new research emerges and best practices shift. The CAS program provides:

• Up-to-date, science-based information
• A structured, thorough foundation in avian husbandry
• Credibility for anyone working with or advising on bird care
• Greater confidence in identifying species, understanding behavior, and supporting bird health

For retailers and pet-care professionals, the certification also helps ensure that staff are knowledgeable, consistent, and equipped to provide excellent guidance to customers.

Other Helpful Resources from PAN

In addition to certification programs, PAN offers a range of bird-focused materials that benefit both retailers and individual bird owners. These materials include:

Species-Specific Bird Care Guides

PAN’s care guides include essential information for species such as cockatiels, parakeets, and parrots, helping caregivers understand enrichment needs, nutrition, environment, and social behavior.

Healthy Handling Stickers

These stickers offer quick-reference tips for safely handling birds and other small animals—perfect for store settings, training new staff, or reinforcing good habits at home.

Zoonotic Disease Prevention Resources

PAN’s Zoonotic Disease Prevention Series provides retailers and caretakers with important information on minimizing disease transmission between animals and people—an essential part of responsible pet care.

Small Animal Care Subcommittee

PAN collaborates with experts across the small animal community—including those focused on birds—to develop and continually update voluntary care standards, provide expert input to government agencies, and advise on regulations impacting birds and other small animals.

This ongoing work ensures that the avian and small-animal care community has access to current, expert-approved best practices.

How PAN Advocates for the Pet and Avian Community

Beyond education, PAN plays a major role in shaping the regulatory landscape for pet care. The organization’s efforts include:

• Working with lawmakers to ensure that policies are balanced and science-based
• Defending consumer choice and responsible pet ownership
• Collaborating with veterinarians, agencies like the CDC and USDA, and other experts
• Leading conversations on welfare, sustainability, and industry standards
• Bringing the community together through their committees, including dedicated avian and small animal groups

Their decades of work ensure that the needs of birds and the people who care for them are represented at every level.

Interested in Becoming a Certified Avian Specialist?

At MyBird, we believe in equipping bird lovers and professionals with the tools they need to help birds thrive. Education—such as through PAN’s Certified Avian Specialist program—is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen the human–animal bond, improve welfare, and empower caregivers. Whether you’re a lifelong bird lover, a store manager training your team, or a new hobbyist excited to learn more, the CAS program is a meaningful way to expand your expertise and support the avian community.

To explore the program and other PAN resources, visit the Pet Advocacy Network!