A perhaps better example is that paralegals can competently prepare legal documents but only under the supervision of a licensed attorney. The paralegal is prohibited by law to give legal advice or draft documents independently, even though many are perfectly capable. This example holds especially true if you want a basic will drawn up or settle an uncomplicated personal injury matter without litigation. Instead, you have to go to an attorney. This equals more jobs for attorneys and higher prices for consumers.

And, take note of my “pediatric anesthesiology” comment. I realize when the stakes are that high there is no margin for error. Professional examinations and licensing requirements are more compelling. I just don’t see the same stakes in the case of animal massage.

Thanks for commenting.

The National Board of Certification for Animal Acupressure and Massage (NBCAAM) is a new organization that was started for the SOLE purpose of enhancing the standing of animal acupressure and massage practitioners in this country. It does this by hosting a national certification exam and offering ongoing continuing education so that veterinarians, animal health care providers and the general public can have confidence in the education and abilities of nationally certified practitioners. The reason for doing this is clear – there are currently no licensing or standard requirements for practicing animal massage and acupressure. Laws vary from state to state. Anyone who takes a weekend workshop or views a video can say they’re “certified” and set up practice. This, as you can imagine, can at best denigrate a legitimate practice and at worst be very dangerous. Therefore, leaders in the animal acupressure and massage fields got together to come up with a solution. Their answer was NBCAAM and a national certification exam. No one is forced to participate in this organization or to take the exam. NBCAAM will in NO WAY EVER put pressure on anyone to do anything. It is simply a vehicle for those who wish to enhance their practice. I am a small animal massage and acupressure practitioner and I can tell you that I look forward to taking both exams, when they are available.

I am certain that Ms. Clemens will see the value in being nationally certified, and based on what I’ve read about this case so far, I suspect she will have no trouble passing the exam! Finally, as author of this article, I encourage you to do your research on NBCAAM before you discredit this organization.