Ontario Veterinary College Welcomes Inaugural Northern Cohort to Address Veterinary Shortage
This September, the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) at the University of Guelph welcomed its first Northern Cohort—20 students from Northern Ontario joining the Collaborative Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program (CDVMP), a partnership with Lakehead University. The program is designed to address veterinary care shortages in Northern Ontario, particularly in rural, remote, and Indigenous communities.
Over the next four years, these students will train at OVC with the goal of returning to their home communities to deliver essential, accessible, and culturally responsive veterinary care. The program is supported by $14.7 million in provincial funding for new infrastructure on both campuses to support delivery of the collaborative program.
“These students bring deep ties to Northern Ontario, a passion for service, and a commitment to improving animal health and welfare,” said Dr. Jeff Wichtel, dean of OVC. “We’re proud to support their journey and to be part of a long-term solution that strengthens veterinary capacity across the province.”
The CDVMP combines OVC’s internationally recognized veterinary education with Lakehead University’s history of supporting northern and Indigenous communities. Students will engage in experiential learning, collaborate with local veterinarians, and complete specialized coursework tailored to northern practice. Graduates will earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from the University of Guelph.
While Lakehead University constructs new facilities to support the program, the first two cohorts (2025 and 2026) will complete all four years at the Guelph campus. Beginning in 2027, students are expected to start their studies in Thunder Bay and finish at OVC.
“This inaugural Northern Cohort marks a remarkable milestone for veterinary education in Northern Ontario,” said Dr. Gillian Balfour, Provost at Lakehead University. “We look forward to welcoming future cohorts to our new facilities in Thunder Bay.”
The program officially began with OVC’s Orientation Week on September 2, culminating in the Professional Welcome Ceremony on September 7, where each student received a blue lab coat and stethoscope to mark the start of their DVM journey.
“These students are the future of veterinary care in the North,” said Dr. Joanne Hewson, associate dean at OVC. “Their resilience, compassion, and leadership will shape the profession for years to come.”
Original story here: https://www.guelphtoday.com/local-news/ontatio-veterinary-college-welcomes-first-northern-cohort-11132063
