ABC-Animal - Profession Chronicle
Veterinarian: Studies and Professional Association
Many people who love animals often dream of becoming veterinarians. And with good reason! It is one of the most interesting and diversified professions. But becoming a Vet takes effort! And since animal health has a direct effect on human health, the practice of veterinary medicine is therefore strictly controlled by a professional association.
Going to University
The first step to take is education. In Canada, university courses are available in Saint-Hyacinthe (Québec), Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island), Guelph (Ontario), Saskatoon (Saskatchewan) and Calgary (Alberta). After five years of university, the student obtains the title of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.).
Professionnal Association
After obtaining the D.V.M., the veterinarian will obtain the right to practice by joining the professional association in the province, state, department or country in which he or she wishes to practice, and by agreeing to follow the association’s rules.
Ordre des Médecins Vétérinaires du Québec (OMVQ)
In Québec, this association is called the Ordre des Médecins Vétérinaires du Québec (OMVQ). Like associations for other professions (those of doctors, pharmacists and so on), the OMVQ is first and foremost a monitoring organization whose purpose is to protect the public. It makes sure that veterinarians carry out all aspects of their work correctly and safely. Whether in the realm of prescribing and selling medications, performing surgery, taking X-rays, or even approving and/or condemning meat for human consumption, the OMVQ keeps a close eye on things.
Ordre des Médecins Vétérinaires du Québec
800 Avenue Ste-Anne, suite 200
Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec
Canada
J2S 5G7
Phone: 1-800-267-1427
Fax: 450-774-7635
Information
Do you have any questions or are you having a disagreement with a veterinarian? Have you met a person who is illegally practicing the profession or who vaccinates animals without any monitoring? Have you been to a store or pharmacy that sells prescription drugs without a prescription? Contact your province, state, department or country’s Association of Veterinarians directly.
Alain Aspirault, D.V.M.
Veterinarian
Ancienne-Lorette Vet Clinic
Québec, Canada
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