Following the 2026 Annual General Meeting, a new requirement has been approved under the PIPS By-law regarding the appointment of a Responsible Veterinarian.

This provision will come into force on a date to be determined by resolution of the MVMA Council. To support a smooth transition and ensure compliance upon enactment, all veterinary practices are required to appoint a Responsible Veterinarian and submit the required appointment form to the MVMA by (suggested date of  Nov 1)

Submission Requirement
Each veterinary practice must complete and submit the Responsible Veterinarian Appointment Form to formally designate their Responsible Veterinarian. This step is mandatory and required to be compliant with the newly approved PIPS By-law.

Practices are strongly encouraged to begin identifying their Responsible Veterinarian now to avoid delays in compliance.

What is a Responsible Veterinarian?
A Responsible Veterinarian is a veterinarian with an unrestricted licence who is formally appointed by the practice owner or owners to oversee the operation of the veterinary practice.

This individual holds overall authority for the practice and is expected to be informed about all aspects of its operations. They provide overall guidance to ensure the practice complies with the Act, the By-laws, and all applicable Guidelines, and serve as the primary decision-maker for operational matters.

The Responsible Veterinarian is also responsible for signing and confirming the accuracy of all PIPS documents submitted to the MVMA. The name of the Responsible Veterinarian for each veterinary practice will be published by the MVMA.

Practice Inspection and Practice Standards By-law (PIPS) By-law Requirements (Section B.2)
Each veterinary practice must appoint an unrestricted registered veterinarian to act as the Responsible Veterinarian. The appointed individual must:

• Be registered as a General Veterinarian Member
• Be familiar with the statutory requirements for operating a veterinary practice
• Ensure the practice meets all applicable standards of practice

The Responsible Veterinarian does not assume responsibility for the conduct of other members working within the practice. All veterinarians and veterinary technologists remain individually responsible for meeting professional competency and conduct standards.

A veterinarian is not eligible to act as a Responsible Veterinarian if:

• They are no longer registered as a General Veterinarian Member
• Conditions or restrictions are placed on their licence
• Their licence is suspended

If a Responsible Veterinarian resigns or becomes ineligible, the practice must appoint a new Responsible Veterinarian within 30 days. Failure to do so will result in the practice being prohibited from providing veterinary services until:

• A new Responsible Veterinarian is appointed, and
• An inspection has been completed

 

For questions or further information, please contact mvmainfo@mvma.ca