Membership Mark Ownership

The NAVTA recognized specialty Academies are independently incorporated organizations that assess individuals who are interested in a veterinary nursing specialty. Well qualified individuals can apply to become members of an Academy via a comprehensive process developed by each Academy . Therefore, ownership of member status belongs with the Academies. The CPVTNS has given a percentage of a ownership of the trademark to all current NAVTA recognized Academies and will help defend against those who abuse the membership mark. A percentage of ownership will be given to Academies that may be approved in the future that use the "VTS" or "VNS" mark for members.

Ownership of the mark is also spelled out in the 2024 CVTS Policies and Procedures:

"XI. Content and Criteria of a New VTSA Petition

h. A copy of a Protection of Title Waiver to be signed/agreed to by VTSA members. II. Suggested wording: Certificates of recognition, Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) or Veterinary Nurse Specialist (VNS) designations will remain the property of the Academy. Certificates of recognition and credential designation that are revoked because of a violation to the provisions of the Academy’sConstitution or Bylaws; policies and procedures; failure to complete annual renewals; or does not maintain their primary veterinary technician or nurse credential while a member of the Academy, will be returned to the Academy and the former Academy member will cease and desist from using the “VTS” or VNS” member designation. Failure to comply with this agreement may result in legal action from the Academy, NAVTA or other vested parties.

XV. Recommendations for Fully Recognized Veterinary Technician Specialty Academies

The following are not required for full recognition but are strongly recommended for all Veterinary Technician Specialty Academies.

b. Secure trademarking of the Veterinary Technician Specialty Academy’s title and logo.

XVII. Title Designation

Veterinary technicians or veterinary nurses who have met all requirements as stipulated by a VTSA shall be known as Veterinary Technician Specialists (VTS) with the following VTSA specialty designation"

Currently, for Academies that become unrecognized by NAVTA, their percent of ownership will be revoked.

Given the structure of the CPVTNS and maintaining each Academies autonomy, only

NAVTA was successful in trademarking two logos identifying approved Academies. We believe with the CPVTNS' and NAVTA's dual efforts the distinctive membership status will be better maintained.

Charter of Coalition for the Protection of Veterinary Technician and Nurse Specialists (Draft pending settlement with NAVTA)

Article I: Purpose

The CPVTNS is established solely for the purposes of:

Filing for, securing, and maintaining the VTS trademark and aiding with the member Academies in ensuring its proper use and protection.
Supporting the introduction and advancement of legislation that benefits and promotes the professional development and interests of Academy members.

Article II: Scope of Activities

CPVTNS will act as the steward of the VTS trademark, ensuring its compliance with applicable laws and standards.
CPVTNS will collaborate with stakeholders to advocate for legislative initiatives that enhance the professional standing, resources, and opportunities available to Academy members.

Article III: Limitation of Activities

CPVTNS shall not engage in activities beyond those necessary to fulfill its stated purpose. The organization will remain focused on its foundational objectives and operate within legal and ethical guidelines.

Article IV: Governance

The governance of CPVTNS will be conducted in alignment with its mission, with leadership accountable to ensure the transparent and responsible management of its operations and initiatives.

Leadership includes three primary coordinators and directors. A director is a representative from each member Academy that share equal voting rights.