An extra layer of protection is being provided for livestock producers in Chatham-Kent and across Ontario.
The provincial government is expanding the Veterinary Assistance Program, increasing eligibility and streamlining the application process to ensure livestock producers in northern and rural Ontario have reliable access to vet care.
“This initiative, together with others like the Veterinary Incentive Program, is making it easier for farmers and large animal owners to access veterinary care when and where they need it,” said Trevor Jones, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness in a news release. “Veterinary services are essential to the strength of Ontario’s agri-food sector and our government is working to address the challenges farmers face in northern and rural communities to protect our province’s livestock industry.”
First introduced in 1945, the VAP provides financial support to veterinarians delivering care to animals on farms, including support for locum assistance, travel, and continuing education costs.
Following a review in 2024, a number of updates will be implemented. As of April 1, the program will recognize registered veterinary technicians as eligible participants, add honeybees and fish as eligible livestock, and expand eligibility so all veterinary practices providing services in eligible areas can apply, among other changes.
Provincial officials say the changes will ensure veterinary practices have fair and equitable access to program funding while maintaining essential services for livestock producers.
