The Manitoba Chief Veterinary Office (CVO) and industry partners would like to remind mixed animal veterinary teams that swine diseases more commonly found in commercial production systems have the potential to also affect smaller scale swine operations and pet pig properties. A recent Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus (PEDv) detection in a smaller commercial operation likely occurred when a producer came in contact with the disease at a provincial slaughter facility.

For those less familiar with the swine industry, PEDv is a highly transmissible viral disease that causes significant economic and animal welfare impacts. The disease is an ongoing risk in the swine industry, with high traffic commercial sites, such as assembly yards where cull sows are collected and large slaughter facilities receiving sows from outside of Manitoba, often test PCR positive on environmental sampling. Although PEDv can infect all production stages of swine, young piglets are the most heavily impacted and high levels of mortality are usually experienced in 7–10-day old piglets. Other signs noted in infected pigs include vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Pig owners are encouraged to discuss practical disease prevention (biosecurity) plans tailored to their unique farm system or yard with their herd veterinarian. Veterinarians with questions about PEDv or biosecurity for small holder swine and mixed animal veterinary clinics are welcome to reach out to the CVO at chiefveterinaryoffice@gov.mb.ca or 1-204-945-7663.

Date: June 12, 2026

Manitoban veterinary professionals are advised of rising cases of New World screwworm (NWS) in Mexico and the United States. As of June 11, 2026, eight cases have been confirmed in Texas (6 cattle, 2 goat cases), and one case in a dog from New Mexico. These mark the first detections of NWS in the United States since 2016.

What is New World Screwworm?

NWS is a parasitic fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax) endemic in South America and many Caribbean countries. During the larval stage, maggots eat the living flesh of their warm-blooded host causing significant tissue damage and creating opportunities for secondary bacterial infections. If left untreated, an infestation of NWS can be fatal.

• Any animal or person with an open wound is at increased risk of contracting NWS.
• Livestock is at highest risk of infestation, especially at the umbilicus and wounds from dehorning and castration. NWS can also infest wildlife, pets, occasionally birds, and people.
• In Canada, NWS is a federal immediately notifiable disease.
• The USA eradicated NWS in 1966, and use of the Sterile Insect Technique created a barrier zone at Panama’s Darién Gap between Central and South America. The barrier failed in 2023, and NWS re-emerged in Mexico in late 2024.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports more than 170,000 cumulative cases of NWS in animals in Mexico and Central America, and more than 2000 cases in humans. Sustained, year-round transmission of the fly life cycle requires regular daily air temperatures between 25°C and 30°C and a relative humidity of 30% to 70%.
• While most regions in Canada are considered very low risk for the establishment of NWS, localized cases and seasonal establishment are still a risk to animal health and could trigger potential trade impacts if NWS was detected in Canada.

Import Restrictions for Livestock

On June 5, 2026, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) issued a news release announcing temporary import restrictions for livestock, including horses, from the State of Texas.

• Livestock/horses will not be permitted into Canada if they have been in Texas at any time within the previous 21 days.
• Livestock/horses from Texas are required to reside in another state for a minimum of 21 days before entry into Canada would be permitted.
• Strict import restrictions on livestock/horses remain in place for Mexico.

For additional information on livestock import requirements, see the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) or contact your local CFIA district office.

Companion Animal Context

There are currently no import restrictions for companion animals moving into Canada from areas impacted by NWS.

• There have been over 3000 canine cases reported since the current outbreak in Mexico began in November 2024.
• As of June 8, 2026, there are currently 662 active cases of NWS in dogs in Mexico.
• Dogs present a potential risk factor for entry of NWS into Canada that may lead to temporary transmission pathways, and significant impacts to other animals and people.
• Both Credelio/Credelio CAT and NexGard/NexGard Combo are effective extra-label in cats and dogs at killing the larval stage of NWS.

Recommendations for Veterinary Professionals

• Clinical signs of NWS include swellings, foul odor, unresolving wounds, and visible burrowing maggots. Infestations with NWS (myiasis) can be very deep with secondary infections that can be fatal if untreated.
• In livestock, wounds may be in discrete locations that are not easily observed. It can also be difficult to detect infested wounds in heavy coated dog and cat breeds.
• Report any suspected cases to the CFIA, especially if there is a history of travel, and save maggots for confirmatory testing.
• Treatment includes physical removal of maggots and wound debridement. Remove all larvae and place them in 70% ethanol to kill them (never throw them outside or in the trash). It is critical that the larvae do not drop to the soil where they can complete their life cycle.
• Injectable ivermectin and doramectin may be given extra-label in livestock/horses under veterinary supervision. Topical products including F10 Antiseptic Wound Spray with Insecticide may also be considered extra-label. Other drugs including but not limited to Negasunt Powder may be available under emergency drug release. In the event of a NWS detection, treatment options would be advised by the CFIA in consultation with the Veterinary Drugs Directorate (VDD).
• Isoxazoline-based oral products have efficacy for both prevention and treatment in cats and dogs.
• Recommend and prescribe Credelio or NexGard for cats and dogs travelling from warm climates 24 hours prior to re-entry into Canada with a follow up dose in 30 days.
• Discuss potential implications for clients travelling to Mexico or Texas with livestock, horses, and pets.

Summary

NWS is a serious and life-threatening myiasis-causing parasitic fly that can infest both animals and people. Rising cases of NWS in Mexico and the State of Texas highlight the potential risk factors for disease incursion into Canada. Veterinarians remain a first line of defense to combat animal health and public health threats including but not limited to NWS. Preventative ectoparasitic treatment options remain readily available for companion animals travelling or entering Canada from warm climates.

For further information or guidance, veterinarians may contact their local CFIA district office or the office of the provincial Chief Veterinarian at 204-945-7663.

For more information on NWS and the current situation in the United States visit:
• New World Screwworm Confirmed Detections Dashboard | USDA APHIS
• Emergency Response NWS | USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
• Screwworm.gov | Unified Government Response To Protect the United State

CANCELLED

After careful consideration, the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association has made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s event. While we were looking forward to bringing together veterinary students and Manitoba’s veterinary community, we were unable to secure sufficient participation from veterinary professionals to deliver the meaningful networking, mentorship, and connection opportunities we had planned.

We sincerely appreciate the support of our hosts, partners, veterinary professionals, and students who expressed interest in being part of this initiative. We remain committed to creating opportunities that support veterinary students and strengthen connections within Manitoba’s veterinary community.

NextGen Vets: Summer Student Days 2026

Building Connections and Knowledge for Future Veterinary Leaders

July 16–17 | Winnipeg & Stonewall

Please note: NextGen Vets: Summer Student Days 2026 has been cancelled.

Student Networking Mixer

Thursday, July 16, 2026
6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Local Public Eatery, Garry Street, Winnipeg

What to Expect

Join us for an evening of great food, relaxed conversation, and valuable networking. Meet practicing veterinarians, registered veterinary technologists, clinic managers, and fellow students in a casual atmosphere.

For Students

Student registration is free and includes food and non-alcoholic beverages. This is an opportunity to ask questions, learn about different career paths, and meet professionals from clinics across Manitoba.

For Veterinary Professionals

Each practice may register up to two representatives. Meet veterinary students before graduation, share your experiences, and introduce your clinic to the next generation of veterinary professionals.

Please Note

We’ll be there to welcome you starting at 6:00 PM, which is when we have access to the venue. When you arrive, stop by the welcome table to pick up your name tag before joining the event. There is no formal networking schedule, so you’re free to mingle at your own pace and enjoy the evening. Hailey will be available throughout the event if you have any questions or need assistance.

Student Registration – CLOSED

Professional Registration – CLOSED

Bison and Elk Farm Tours

Friday, July 17, 2026
Stonewall, Manitoba

What to Expect

Continue your NextGen Vets experience with a behind-the-scenes look at a unique livestock operation in Manitoba. Learn about herd health, production practices, and the role veterinarians play in caring for bison while connecting with fellow students and professionals.

Included with Your Registration

• Guided tour of Rockwood Bison Ranch
• Informal Q&A

Please Note:

A visit to Elk Ranch is currently to be determined. If this additional stop is confirmed, the tour schedule will be updated accordingly, and the event will likely conclude at 12:30 PM instead of 11:30 AM. Updated itinerary details will be shared with all registered participants as soon as they are confirmed.

Registration – CLOSED

Questions?

Contact: engagement@mvma.ca

The MVMA is seeking veterinarians and registered veterinary technologists to volunteer at Ag in the Classroom Manitoba’s Amazing Ag Adventure, taking place September 22 to 25, 2026, at the Bruce D. Campbell Farm & Food Discovery Centre.

This annual event introduces students to Manitoba agriculture and the many career opportunities within the industry. Over four days, approximately 1,000 students from Grades 3 to 12 will participate in hands-on learning experiences, including a visit to the veterinary medicine station hosted by the MVMA.

Volunteers will help engage students as they explore veterinary medicine through interactive displays and activities. The station will feature Clover, 4-H Manitoba’s demonstration calving cow, along with calving equipment, microscope demonstrations, and other veterinary learning tools. Volunteers who are comfortable discussing calving and livestock health are especially encouraged to participate.

This is a rewarding opportunity to inspire young people, share your passion for veterinary medicine, and help students connect with agriculture in a meaningful way.

Event Details

Location: Bruce D. Campbell Farm & Food Discovery Centre (Glenlea Research Station)

Dates: September 22 to 25, 2026

Student Tour Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Volunteer Commitment: Approximately 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Lunch will be provided.

We are looking for two to three volunteers per day. Whether you can help for one day or multiple days, your support is greatly appreciated.

To volunteer or learn more, please contact Deanne.Wilkinson@gov.mb.ca

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

The Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA) is aware that human pharmacies, including large retail pharmacies such as Costco, are dispensing veterinary-only prescription medications, including seasonal heartworm and tick prevention.

The regulation of human pharmacies, including their scope of practice and dispensing activities, falls under the jurisdiction of the College of Pharmacists of Manitoba.

The Pharmaceutical Act defines prescription as:

“prescription” means a direction given by a practitioner directing that a stated amount of a drug specified in the direction be dispensed for the person named or animal described in the direction.

Under the current legislative and regulatory framework in Manitoba, human pharmacies that are appropriately licensed and operating within their scope may dispense veterinary prescriptions. The MVMA does not have the authority to regulate or restrict the dispensing activities of human pharmacies.

While similar practices have been reported in other Canadian jurisdictions, regulatory requirements are determined at the provincial level. There have been no changes to MVMA by-laws or expectations for members

Current Requirements and Guidance

As per MVMA General By-Law No 1:

Provide prescription on request

4-6-6 Where a VCPR exists, the Practicing Veterinarian Member must, upon request by the client, provide to a client a prescription instead of dispensing the prescription product.

As per section 2.6.3.3 of the MVMA PIPS By-Law All prescriptions must contain the following information:

i. Date
ii. Client
iii. Animal or group
iv. Drug–including generic name and strength
v. Direction for use–dosage, route, frequency, duration, withdrawal times
vi. Quantity
vii. Refills

If you have been asked to provide the prescription to a pharmacy directly, ensure that the pharmacy is properly registered in Manitoba. All practices that offer pharmacy services through The Veterinary Medical Act are required to hold a Practice Inspection Practice Standards (PIPS) Certificate. All practices in Manitoba that hold a PIPS Certificate are listed on the MVMA website on the Veterinary Practices Database.

All human focused pharmacies in Manitoba are regulated by the College of Pharmacists of Manitoba. A public register of pharmacies in Manitoba is available here. More information about human pharmacies can be obtained by contacting the College of Pharmacists of Manitoba.

The MVMA rules require you to provide a prescription when requested. If you are unable to confirm if a pharmacy is registered in Manitoba, you can provide your client with a written prescription for them to fill themselves.

The MVMA by-laws do not prohibit veterinarians from charging a reasonable prescription administration or processing fee. Decisions regarding such fees are at the discretion of each veterinary practice. However, regardless of such fee, a prescription must be provided upon request.

Continuity of Care and Professional Responsibility

This situation raises broader considerations related to continuity of care, patient safety, and appropriate oversight in the prescribing and dispensing of veterinary medications.

Veterinarians remain responsible for ensuring that prescriptions are clinically appropriate and supported by a valid VCPR. Clear communication with clients regarding treatment plans, product use, and follow-up care continues to be essential, regardless of where a prescription is filled.

The MVMA recognizes that members have raised concerns regarding continuity of care, product sourcing, prescribing oversight, and the broader impact on veterinary practice sustainability. The MVMA is developing an advocacy approach on behalf of the profession and will continue engaging with relevant stakeholders regarding these concerns.

If you have concerns about the care received at a pharmacy or the conduct of a pharmacist, please contact the College of Pharmacists of Manitoba .

Practice guidance information is available on the MVMA website:

https://www.mvma.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/written-prescriptions-guidance-doc.pdf

The grant assistance is now available to provide summer employment to:

• WCVM students who have completed their first year ($6500), second and third year students ($5000)
• Veterinary Technologist (VT) students who have completed their first year from a Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) accredited program ($6500) or
• Pre-veterinary students who have completed their first, second, third or fourth year of science ($6500)

Who Can Hire Veterinary Students as part of VetSTEP?

Veterinary practices and practitioners licensed to operate an active, large, or mixed animal practice located in rural Manitoba are eligible to participate in the program. Clinics and practitioners specializing in small animal medicine are not eligible.

Businesses and non-profit organizations operating a livestock operation in rural Manitoba are eligible if they employ or have a service contract with a veterinarian licensed to practice large or mixed animal medicine in Manitoba. The veterinarian must directly supervise the student.

How Do Clinics Contact VetSTEP and Submit a Grant Application?

Review the Program Terms & Conditions: 2026 VetSTEP Program Terms and Conditions, Factsheet: 2026 VetSTEP Factsheet v0.3 and Application form: 2026 VetSTEP Application Form, visit https://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/funding/vetstep.html or email VSD@gov.mb.ca.

Once the clinic and a student agree on summer employment, the clinic submits its application to VetSTEP by emailing VSD@gov.mb.ca.

Please note both the employer and student must sign the application form.

The application deadline is May 7, 2026.

We encourage you to utilize the VetSTEP funding as an early recruitment tool. If students have positive work experiences, benefit from career development and learning opportunities within your practice, establish relationships with your team, and within the community, they are more apt to consider working and relocating to your community following graduation.

For Further Information

Contact VetSTEP by emailing VSD@gov.mb.ca or calling Omotola Ologbenla (204-729-1387).

Call For Volunteers

The PIPS Bylaw Implementation Committee is seeking input from MVMA members who regularly perform activities such as rehabilitation, acupuncture, and chemotherapy in their daily practice. Your insights are essential to establishing acceptable standards of practice and ensuring that the new activity-type bylaws reflect the needs of those directly involved with these procedures.

If you are interested in contributing, please contact the MVMA via email, mvmainfo@mvma.ca,

April is Volunteer Month, and we want to sincerely thank all of our volunteers for the time, effort, and care you give to support our work. Whether you have served on a committee, helped organize or run events, supported initiatives behind the scenes, or volunteered your time working with animals, your contributions make a real difference. We also want to give a special thank you to our dog volunteers, who brought a lot of joy to the people and events they were part of!

Your commitment helps us deliver programs, support our community, and keep things running smoothly. We truly appreciate everything you do. If you are interested in volunteering, please keep an eye out for opportunities shared through our communications.

As a small token of our appreciation, please watch your mailbox for a gift coming your way!

Thank you again for your continued support.