Manitoba is taking action to deal with the province’s vet shortage.
The provincial government said this morning that it will boost funding for the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatoon and create more spots for veterinary students from Manitoba.
“By increasing our annual intake to 20 students from 15, we will support more students to pursue this important career path in order to help build our province’s animal health-care capacity for years to come,” said Jon Reyes, provincial minister of advanced education, skills and immigration.
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“We are committed to working with the college’s administration to realize this expansion effective in 2023-24.”
The Manitoba Pork Council, Keystone Agricultural Producers and other groups have been lobbying the government to increase funding for vet training to address the shortfall of vets in Manitoba. The Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association has said the vacancy rate for veterinarians in Manitoba is 15 per cent. That figure is likely higher for rural vets.
Manitoba Pork thanked the government for the increased spaces.
“Large animal veterinarians, like those that work in the hog sector, are vital partners in ensuring that our animals are raised healthy and free of the threat of disease outbreaks,” chair Rick Preset said in statement.
“Today’s announcement will ensure that we can continue to close the gap in the necessary number of veterinarians practicing in Manitoba, and that our sector can continue to sustainably grow our herds.”
The five additional spaces will cost the province an additional $539,200 in 2023-24 for a total commitment of $7,009,600.
“For the 2024-25 academic year, Manitoba’s contribution to the college will increase to $7,642,400 and bring the student quota to 70,” the province said.
Keri Hudson-Reykdal, president of the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association, also praised the government.
“There is currently a large shortage of veterinarians in Manitoba. The commitment to educating more veterinarians will help alleviate the shortage over the long term.”
Contact robert.arnason@producer.com
