Canadian veterinarians call for government support during Animal Health Week

On October 9, 2024, the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) gathered on Parliament Hill to kick off Animal Health Week, a national campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the critical role animal health plays in our society. This week also honors the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to protect animal health every day.

Animal Health Week underscores the essential bond between humans and animals. Regular veterinary visits, proper nutrition, and early disease detection are key to ensuring the well-being of both companion animals and livestock. This, in turn, enhances the quality of life for the animals and the people who care for them. The CVMA emphasizes that animal health is a societal priority, impacting health protection, mental health, public safety, and food security.

Dr. Tim Arthur, President of the CVMA, highlighted a pressing issue in veterinary medicine: the shrinking number of approved veterinary drugs.

“This shortage forces us to rely more on medications essential to human medicine, particularly antibiotics. We urge the federal government to be proactive and invest in maintaining and strengthening the availability of veterinary drugs,” Dr. Arthur stated.

This year’s Animal Health Week coincides with Mental Illness Awareness Week, highlighting the intersection between mental health and veterinary practice. The bond between humans and animals can provide comfort, stress relief, and stability during challenging times. However, the veterinary community is facing its own mental health crisis. Veterinarians are four times more likely to die by suicide than the general population, underscoring the urgent need for mental health support within the profession.

Jordyn Hewer, the Quebec representative for the CVMA, explained, “Many veterinarians are overworked, affecting their mental health and exacerbating an already acute labor shortage projected to reach 1,000 veterinarians by 2025.”

To address this, the CVMA is calling for measures to build a robust veterinary workforce. This includes creating more spaces for Canadian students at veterinary colleges, recruiting internationally trained veterinarians, and establishing a national testing center to expedite their integration into the Canadian workforce.

Dr. Arthur concluded, “Animal Health Week is an opportunity for everyone, especially the government, to recognize the positive impact animals have on our families, communities, and overall mental health. Let’s support veterinarians by ensuring they have access to essential veterinary drugs and by building a strong workforce to continue caring for our animals in Canada.”