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Beef producers and bovine veterinarians are being asked to assist in a western Canadian bovine anaplasmosis study. The study looks to determine the occurrence of anaplasmosis in western Canadian beef cattle, survey herd management practices that may affect the risk of anaplasmosis and develop a chute-side test for rapid detection. The study was unable to collect sufficient samples from beef herds west of Winnipeg last year, so researchers are looking for support and sample submissions again this fall. With preg checking season upon us, bovine practitioners have the opportunity to connect with producers and offer herd screening. The project does provide some compensation for the producer, as well as private veterinarians, for their time.

Those with study questions can contact the project lead with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada:

• Shaun Dergousoff shaun.dergousoff@AGR.GC.CA

Those interested in submitting samples are asked to contact the University of Manitoba team conducting the local diagnostics:

• Kateryn Rochon kateryn.rochon@umanitoba.ca
• Mabel Currie curriem1@myumanitoba.ca

See the study posters here.

The MVMA and MVTA would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who participated in the ACER RVT Utilization & Practice Operations Survey. More than 300 people took the time to share their experiences, perspectives, and ideas. This strong level of engagement highlights the commitment within our community to supporting the future of veterinary practice in Manitoba.

Your feedback is invaluable. Each response helps us gain a better understanding of how Registered Veterinary Technologists (RVTs) are being utilized, how practices are functioning, and where there are opportunities to strengthen veterinary teams. This survey marks a significant step toward meaningful change, and it wouldn’t have been possible without your contributions.

To show our appreciation to participants, everyone who completed the survey was entered into a draw for an honorarium. Several individuals were selected to receive $50 Visa gift cards, and one grand prize winner was given the option of an iPad or a $500 Visa gift card. The winners have been contacted directly, and we extend our congratulations to them on receiving these honoraria!

This study is ongoing. The complete survey results and analysis will be published in early 2026. These findings will provide valuable insights and guide efforts to strengthen and support the veterinary profession throughout Manitoba.

ACER Consulting has conducted this study on behalf of the MVTA and MVMA, exploring the current utilization of RVTs in Manitoba, as well as the demand and feasibility of introducing an Advanced Registered Veterinary Technologist (ARVT) role. Alongside the survey, focus groups will be conducted to ensure that diverse perspectives from across the province are represented in the findings. Sign up to participate in our upcoming focus groups and share your valuable insights.

Thank you again for lending your voice to this critical project. Together, we are building a stronger and more sustainable future for veterinary medicine in our province.

Sign up to participate in our upcoming focus groups and share your valuable insights!

The MVMA is currently reviewing a Limited License model as a faster, competency-based pathway to veterinary licensure in Manitoba. This approach would allow veterinarians to practice specifically within their demonstrated area of expertise. For example, a small animal veterinarian would remain focused on small animal medicine.

Since 2022, MVMA Council has been engaged with a national pilot project designed to test and validate this model. The pilot demonstrated strong potential to support safe, targeted licensure and improve access to veterinary services across Manitoba. Before this pathway can be implemented in the province, it will require a bylaw change and a formal member vote. The MVMA is committed to keeping members informed and engaged throughout this process.

The pilot project, known as the Limited Licensure Competency Assessment Pathway (LLCAP), was launched by the Canadian Council of Veterinary Registrars with support from the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association’s Workforce Shortage Project. It was developed in response to Canada’s growing veterinarian shortage. Traditional licensing demands broad expertise across species, which can block internationally educated vets with focused, advanced experience.

The LLCAP offers a practical alternative. It assesses internationally trained vets with specialties in production animals, small companions, or equine practice. It lets candidates earn limited licensure based on proven skills instead of standardized exams.

The pilot’s goal was simple: build and test a competency-based model that stands as a solid, sustainable alternative. Candidates submit a portfolio demonstrating their skills and then complete supervised practice in real-world settings under assessor guidance. The process aligns with the 2022 North American Essential Competency Profile for Veterinary Medicine.

22 candidates entered; 17 advanced to supervised practice. The portfolio submission process played a crucial role in identifying competency gaps and helping candidates understand the expectations of supervised practice. Key insights emerged during supervised practice, particularly around clinical decision-making and adaptability. 12 candidates successfully passed this phase.

The report includes recommendations to sharpen the pathway’s reliability and usability. Design choices prioritize defensible assessment outcomes, fit for experienced professionals, and capable of drawing sound conclusions on candidate competence.

In short, the LLCAP pilot confirmed that a competency-based approach is effective and practical for limited licensure. Real-world assessments deliver meaningful results. With improvements in assessor consistency, candidate readiness, and process standardization, this pathway is poised for expansion.

To see the LLCAP executive summary, please click here.

The MVMA is excited to share that Barb Kryzanowski will assume the role of Interim Registrar effective July 23, 2025. Barb has served as Deputy Registrar since 2021 and brings more than a decade of experience in professional regulation. Since 2013, she has played a key role in advancing regulatory initiatives at both the provincial and national levels. Barb’s experience, steady leadership, and deep understanding of the veterinary regulatory environment position her well to guide the MVMA through this transitional period.

Barb can be reached at barbk@mvma.ca.

We are also pleased to welcome Hugh Moran as Interim Executive Director, effective August 15, 2025. Hugh brings over 30 years of provincial and federal experience in association leadership. He has led organizations through governance renewal, strategic planning, and operational change, and has built strong relationships across government, industry, and professional communities. His collaborative, forward-thinking approach will support the MVMA’s ongoing work and strategic priorities.

Hugh can be reached at executivedirector@mvma.ca.

We are confident in Barb and Hugh’s leadership and are well prepared to ensure a smooth transition as they step into their interim roles. The MVMA remains focused on continuity, progress, and service to the profession throughout this period.

The Chief Veterinary Office (CVO), in collaboration with industry stakeholders and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), would like to inform MVMA members that a case of bovine tuberculosis (BTb) has been confirmed in a seven-year-old animal that was slaughtered at a federally inspected abattoir in Manitoba. As with other federally reportable diseases, the investigation is led by the CFIA, with support from the CVO and industry stakeholders. A national eradication program mandated by the CFIA has been in place for BTb since 1923, which involves a quarantine being placed on the farm that the infected animal originated from and BTb testing of this herd will occur prior to depopulation. Contact tracing conducted by the CFIA will determine if additional herds pose a risk and also undergo BTb testing.

Manitoba Public Health has been notified of the detection and oversees the human health aspect of BTb. Veterinarians are reminded and encouraged to share with clients that although BTb is zoonotic, the pasteurization of milk destroys Mycobacterium bovis and the surveillance system in place at slaughter facilities ensures food safety within Canada.

Veterinary teams can find further information concerning BTb at the CFIA’s Bovine Tuberculosis website or Bovine Tuberculosis Investigations website. They may also reach out to the CVO, chiefveterinaryoffice@gov.mb.ca or 1-204-945-7663, with any questions.

Manitoba veterinary clinics are also reminded that special mental health resources are available to livestock producers and those involved in agriculture. Veterinary teams are encouraged to share this information with clients, as no one should feel alone when they are struggling. The Manitoba Farmer Wellness Program (MFWP) offers no-cost, short term counselling specifically tailored to Manitoba farmers, farm families and farm employees. The Canadian Centre for Agriculture Wellbeing (CCAW) offers mental health training to those involved in the agricultural industry. The National Farmer Crisis Line, 1-866-FARMS-01, offers free, 24/7 mental health support to farmers, farm families and agricultural workers in Canada.

Thank You for Joining NextGen Vets: Summer Student Days

Thank you to everyone who took part in NextGen Vets: Summer Student Days 2025. From the connections made at the Student Mixer to the hands-on experience at the Dairy Farm Tour, this event celebrated the energy and potential of Manitoba’s future veterinarians.

We are grateful to the students, mentors, and host clinic teams who made it all possible. Your enthusiasm and insight help strengthen the future of veterinary medicine in our province.

We look forward to welcoming you again soon!

Building Connections and Knowledge for Future Veterinary Leaders

July 17–18 | Winnipeg & Elm Creek | Registration Closed

NextGen Vets: Summer Student Days 2025
Presented by the Manitoba Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA) with support from Keystone Agriculture Producers and the government of Manitoba.

Two events designed for veterinary students and Manitoba practices to connect, explore career paths, and meet the people shaping the future. Join us for one or both; the choice is yours.

Student Mixer
Thursday, July 17, 2025
6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Nicolino’s Restaurant, Winnipeg

What to Expect
A relaxed evening with appetizers, good conversation, and better connections. Engage with practicing veterinarians, technologists, and clinic managers in an informal setting where questions are encouraged and business cards are optional.

For Students

Student registration includes safe ride vouchers to help you get home safely after the event. Hotel accommodations are also available for students travelling from outside Winnipeg.

For Veterinary Professionals
Each clinic may register up to two professionals. It’s a chance to meet students early, offer guidance, and spark relationships that could grow into employment opportunities. For veterinary practices, the Student Mixer is $65 per attendee.

Please note: We’ll be there to welcome you starting at 6:00 PM, which is when we have access to the space, so please don’t arrive early. When you get there, swing by the welcome table to grab your name tag and booklet before you start mingling. There’s no formal structure like speed dating, but your booklet is full of helpful conversation starters, student photos, and clinic info, including who’s attending from each team. Hailey will be there from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. If you have any questions, want help connecting with someone, or need anything related to dietary restrictions, student details, or clinic info, just come find her.

Dairy Farm Tour
Friday, July 18, 2025
10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Halarda Farms, Elm Creek, Manitoba
Free for veterinarian students

What to Expect
Step into the rhythm of rural practice. You’ll tour a high-capacity dairy farm, hear from practicing vets about food animal care, and see the work that powers Manitoba’s agricultural communities.

Included with your registration
• Guided tour of Halarda Farms
• Informal Q&A with professionals on-site
• Lunch and refreshments

For Veterinary Professionals
Each clinic may register up to two professionals to attend. Whether you’re passionate about food animal medicine or simply want to connect with students interested in rural work, your presence makes this experience richer for everyone.

We are monitoring notices regarding the increase in bovine tuberculosis cases. If it reaches a concerning level, we will not host the next generation event. Updates will be provided as soon as more information becomes available.

Please note: When you arrive, please park in the designated lot marked with MVMA signs and other vehicles. Once parked, you must stay in your vehicle until someone comes to attend to you. Due to the current risk of bovine tuberculosis, we’ll be handing out protective equipment to each person in their vehicle. You’ll receive boot covers and be asked to sanitize before entering the farm. Hailey and other volunteers will be outside to assist as soon as possible. You might have to wait a few minutes, so please stay put in your car. If no one is there to greet you within a reasonable time, call 431-451-5077 and remain in your vehicle.

Additional Information
• Students may attend one or both events
• Both events are free for veterinarian students
• Hotel accommodations are available for students from outside Winnipeg
• Transportation support may be arranged if needed
• Spots are limited; early registration is encouraged

Explore your future. Expand your network. Get inspired.

Questions?
Contact Hailey Marsh at engagement@mvma.ca

This is a flexible, come-and-go event. Join us whenever it suits you within zoo hours.
Your ticket gets you full-day access to the zoo so that you can arrive any time between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
Lunch and MVMA-hosted activities will only be held from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM in our private picnic area. Don’t miss it!

We’re excited to confirm that the MVMA Summer Family Fun Day is going ahead as planned on Saturday, June 7 at the Assiniboine Park Zoo. The air quality is expected to be low risk, and we can’t wait to see you there!

Location: Assiniboine Park Zoo
Zoo Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

What’s Included with Your Ticket:

• Admission to the zoo
• Lunch: Hot dog (or vegetarian dog), chips, and a drink
• Access to the MVMA private picnic area
• Classic outdoor games and family fun

Lunch and activities run from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at our reserved picnic space.

Ticket Prices:

• Children (up to 17 years old): $10.00
• Adults (18+): $20.00

Where to Pick Up Your Tickets:

When you arrive, head to the Visitor Services Office at the Main Zoo Entrance. Let staff know you’re with the MVMA Family Fun Day.

Your tickets will be under the name of the person who purchased them. If you’re part of a larger group arriving separately, make sure everyone gives your name at Visitor Services. They’ll receive an MVMA wristband and a zoo ticket.

Staff will have everything ready and will direct you to our private picnic area.

Important: Zoo staff have been briefed to help MVMA guests. Just mention the event and they’ll guide you to the right place!

We’re at capacity! 🐾
Registration is now closed for the MVMA Summer Family Fun Day on June 7 at Assiniboine Park Zoo. We’re so excited to welcome everyone who signed up!

Please contact Hailey at engagement@mvma.ca if you have any questions.