A new program will help draw in and keep livestock veterinarians in rural areas of the province while providing ranchers and farmers with improved and more timely access to animal care.
“Our government remains committed to supporting farmers in B.C. care for their livestock by developing innovative programs that address their veterinary needs,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food. “This initiative aims to bolster the number of veterinarians in rural communities. By doing so, we can provide essential support for livestock care, ultimately strengthening our province’s food security and economy.”
The program will prioritize northern B.C. as its main focus area according to a media release. The program will support veterinary clinics that provide livestock care by assisting with the recruitment and retention of veterinarians and registered veterinary technologists, as well as providing funding for equipment and training.
“Meeting the demand for animal care in a rural area means long and busy days and nights, especially with the shortage of veterinarians in our rural communities,” said Cori Stephen, a veterinarian with the Nechako Valley Animal Health Services, Vanderhoof. “I’m hopeful the new program will help rural, small-town practices like ours attract and retain veterinarians and technologists interested in joining a rural practice, which, in turn, will allow us to provide care to more animals in need in our area.”
The program will also foster local partnerships to enhance strategic planning for veterinary services in underserved communities and regions. Clinics in the Southeast, Okanagan, Southern Cariboo, Thompson, Lillooet, Vancouver Island, and Pemberton will be classified as secondary priority areas, while the Fraser Valley and Lower Mainland will have the lowest priority according to the media release.
“Ranchers and other livestock owners in rural B.C. require a large and diverse group of veterinarians and technicians to assist them with their animal health and welfare needs,” said Kevin Boon, general manager, BC Cattlemen’s Association. “The BC Cattlemen’s Association supports this initiative and feels it will help move the needle to get that help where it is needed most in a short period of time.”
The initial application intake period will run from Tuesday, December 17, 2024, to January 15, 2025.
Comments