News, ideas & inspiration from industry leaders
The CAWA Credential: Now More Accessible and Inclusive Than Ever
March 25, 2025, Phil Nichols
Toronto Humane Society’s CEO shares how the CAWA exam is now more accessible and inclusive to Canadian animal welfare professionals
As someone who’s spent years in animal welfare, I know that this work isn’t just about caring for animals (although that is the most important part) — it’s about leadership, strategy, and creating real, lasting impact for communities and the animals and guardians who depend on us. That’s where the CAWA credential comes in.
The Certified Animal Welfare Administrator credential has been an invaluable tool in my professional journey, and it’s also shaping our incredible team at Toronto Humane Society. With the introduction of the new CAWA Beta exam, I’m especially excited about what this means for the future of animal welfare in Canada.
Exclusion Means Inclusion in Canada
One of the most exciting things about this new exam is its exclusion of questions about U.S. laws and related jargon, making the exam country-neutral and of greater access to Canadian professionals and those beyond North America.
Building a Team of Leaders
Toronto Humane Society has seen firsthand the value CAWA professionals bring to the table. I’m proud to say that we currently have three CAWAs on our team, including myself. We have two more team members who will take the exam in the near future.
This growing network of credentialed professionals isn’t just a point of pride — it’s a testament to the caliber of people we have driving our mission forward. Having CAWA leaders on staff has made a tangible difference in our ability to strategize, innovate, and deliver the best possible outcomes.
The Future of CAWA
The introduction of the new exam represents an exciting evolution of the CAWA program. It’s a reflection of the dynamic nature of our industry — always evolving, always improving. For me, the updates mean that those pursuing the credential are preparing themselves to lead in a world that’s constantly changing.
Why It Matters
At the end of the day, the CAWA credential is about more than personal growth or professional achievement. It’s about the animals. It’s about making sure that the people tasked with improving their lives — whether through direct care, policy work, or community outreach — are equipped with the knowledge and skills to do it well.
It’s also about raising the bar for our entire industry. When we invest in professional development, when we pursue credentials like CAWA, we’re setting a standard for excellence that benefits everyone: the animals, our organizations, and the communities we serve.
For anyone considering taking the leap into CAWA, or for those inspired by the recent updates to the exam, I can say with confidence: it’s worth it. And for those of us in Canada, the time has never been better.
Let’s keep pushing ourselves, our teams, and our industry forward.
More from Phil Nichols, CAWA, RVT
About Phil Nichols
Phil Nichols is a dedicated advocate for animal welfare and has shaped his career around enhancing community animal welfare. After graduating from Seneca Polytechnic, he began his career as a Registered Veterinary Technician at Toronto Humane Society and continued through various roles, from RVT to management to CEO.
Search The Association Blog
Contribute to The Blog
