College leadership supports new legislation at Queens Park hearing

April 22, 2024

The College of Veterinarians of Ontario (College) shared its support for the proposed legislation to govern veterinary medicine in Ontario at Queens Park today.

“As a regulatory College, our mandate is to protect the public interest.  We certainly know about the current challenges in delivering veterinary care in Ontario and the need for better access to care. Unfortunately, our hands are often tied by our current antiquated legislation. The need for legislative change is critical and the proposed legislation brings a modern approach to the regulation of veterinary medicine.” 

Dr. Wade Wright, College President

Dr. Wright and Jan Robinson, College Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, attended a hearing at the Standing Committee on the Interior (Committee) to review the proposed Enhancing Professional Care for Animals Act. The College proposed key amendments, for the Committee’s consideration, to support the effectiveness of the legislation.

“Our College supports the new Bill and we shared suggestions to further enhance the legislation. We are committed to a framework that supports team-based care, licensure of veterinary technicians, quality veterinary care, and recognition of competent, non-veterinary animal care providers,”

Dr. Wright

The College Council has been working towards the modernization of its governing legislation for several years and forwarded recommendations to the province in 2018. 

The College is committed to managing the risks involved in the practice of veterinary medicine in Ontario and working to reduce any potential for harm to animals and to people. Currently, the College licenses approximately 5,500 veterinarians and accredits 2,400 veterinary facilities.