MPP Thompson tables new legislation to expand access to vet care in Ontario

Thompson is pictured at an event in Exeter, last summer | Photo by B. Shakyaver

Legislation brought to the table in Queens Park today (Thursday, February 7) by our local MPP seeks to modernize the work of veterinarians.

MPP Lisa Thompson, Minister of Food, Agriculture and Rural Affairs says that previous legislation required updating due to changing needs.

She used the example of her partner texting their veterinarian – technology that simply didn’t exist when previous legislation was established.

The legislation also streamlines the public complaints process, so that there’s less red tape – expediting that process for practitioners and patients alike.

It’s no secret that there’s a shortage of veterinary professionals in Ontario, and the legislation introduced today (or yesterday) hopes to formalise the role of vet techs, allowing them to deliver to the fullness of their potential – while working in tandem with existing legislation that provides up to $50,000 in grants to recent graduates over five years if they care for large animals and work in underserved areas, and the addition of more seats at the veterinary college.

The new legislation is part of an ongoing collaboration between the Ontario government and various stakeholders like the OSPCA, Ontario Veterinary College, members of the public, and beyond.

Minister Thompson says that at the end of the day, she hopes that the legislation will serve as an opportunity to standardise enhanced professional care for animals, and that discussions will continue with stakeholders as the legislation is finalised.

Written by: B. Shakyaver