BC to double number of seats at Saskatchewan veterinary program in response to vet shortage

The Province has announced that it will double the number of seats for BC veterinary students attending the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) at the University of Saskatchewan.

According to the BC Government, the number of provincially subsidized seats in the college’s doctor of veterinary medicine program will permanently increase from 20 to 40 with the support of an initial investment of $21.8 million over three years.

The investment is part of the “StrongerBC Future Ready” plan to make post-secondary education and skills training more affordable and accessible, and to respond to the biggest challenge heard from businesses — the need for people.

“Veterinarians play a critical role in supporting the agricultural sector, people, and the health and welfare of animals across BC,” said Selina Robinson, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills.

“Last year, we doubled the number of BC students funded to study veterinary medicine and today we are committing to continue this funding so more people receive quality training, and our pets and farm animals can get the health care they need.”

The Province also continues to recruit more vets, including adding veterinarians and registered veterinary technologists to the list of priority occupations under the Provincial Nominee Program in 2022. This helps ensure that veterinary clinics have access to the professionals they need to provide animal care.

“The Government of B.C.’s decision to maintain increased funding of the WCVM is a critical step toward addressing the shortage of veterinary professionals in BC and across Western Canada,” said Dr. Gillian Muir, dean of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine.

“This commitment also allows BC and the WCVM to work together to target priorities for British Columbians, including training more veterinarians who want to practise in rural communities and attracting more Indigenous students to the profession.”

The WCVM’s interprovincial agreement with its three provincial partners – BC, Manitoba and Saskatchewan – helps ensure that Western Canada has a steady supply of veterinarians with in-depth knowledge of animal health and public health, as well as an awareness of the standards and issues facing livestock, fowl and fisheries producers, and pet owners.

Provincial funding also supports training for veterinary technologists, key professionals in veterinary clinic teams.

Diploma programs at Douglas College and Thompson Rivers University, including a distance delivery option, give opportunities for BC students to become registered veterinary technologists.