Alberta Veterinary Medical Association

Alberta Veterinary Medical Association Serving the public by regulating, enhancing and providing leadership in the practice of the profession of veterinary medicine

Founded in 1906.

The Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (ABVMA) is the professional regulatory organization governing the practice of veterinary medicine in Alberta under the authority of the Veterinary Profession Act. As a self-governing profession, the ABVMA is required to perform its regulatory and professional functions in accordance with the law and in a manner responsible to the public of Alberta through

the department of Alberta Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour. The Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (ABVMA) is committed to inclusion across gender identity, ethnicity, religion, age, neurodiversity, physical or mental ability and sexual orientation. The ABVMA membership is multicultural and we value multiple approaches and different points of view in a safe, positive and collaborative environment.

Happy International Volunteer Day!Today, we celebrate the amazing volunteers within our ABVMA member community—people wh...
12/05/2025

Happy International Volunteer Day!
Today, we celebrate the amazing volunteers within our ABVMA member community—people whose time, compassion, and leadership strengthen animal health and support the veterinary profession both here in Alberta and around the world.

From the Council and Committee members who help shape our profession, to those who roll up their sleeves in clinics, communities, and beyond - thank you. Your time, energy, and compassion make a meaningful impact.

Today, we wanted to highlight Connie Varnhagen, RVT, for her volunteer work in the Galápagos with Animal Balance, supporting humane community programs and advancing animal welfare abroad. Her work exemplifies the commitment and heart that many of our members bring to the world.

To every volunteer in our member community, whether helping locally or halfway across the globe, you inspire us every day. Thank you for building a stronger profession and healthier communities for both people and animals.

12/03/2025

It’s National Cat Lovers Month, and we’re celebrating by keeping your feline friends healthy this winter!

Winter myth: “Cats naturally drink less in the cold, so it’s fine if their bowl is barely touched.”

Fact: Indoor heating makes Alberta’s winter air extremely dry. Cats have a low thirst drive, and many become chronically dehydrated without obvious signs.

Dehydration silently stresses kidneys, thickens urine, and raises risks of urinary crystals, blockages, and constipation — issues Alberta veterinarians see spike every January – March.

Simple ways to keep your cat hydrated (and thriving) this winter:

- Place multiple fresh water stations around the home
- Try cat water fountains
- Mix in water or low-sodium broth with meals
- Add wet food to their diet

Hydration matters year-round. Simple steps make a real difference.

As pets enter their senior years, their healthcare needs change. Regular check-ups become even more important to maintai...
11/27/2025

As pets enter their senior years, their healthcare needs change. Regular check-ups become even more important to maintain their comfort and quality of life. Senior dogs and cats should visit their veterinarian at least every 6 months — more often if you notice any changes in behaviour, mobility, appetite, weight, thirst, urination, or comfort.

Your veterinary team may recommend:
- Comprehensive physical examination
- Blood and urine tests to monitor organ function and screen for common senior diseases
- F***l testing for parasites
- Dental examination and professional cleaning
- X-rays, ultrasound, or other diagnostics as needed

Early detection is the best way to keep your senior pet happy and healthy for a longer time.

Read more: https://albertaanimalhealthsource.ca/content/your-senior-pet

Cancer can affect any pet, at any age, but older pets are at greatest risk. For dogs over 10 years old, about 1 in 4 wil...
11/22/2025

Cancer can affect any pet, at any age, but older pets are at greatest risk. For dogs over 10 years old, about 1 in 4 will face cancer in their lifetime. Early detection saves lives — prevention is key, and knowing the warning signs and seeing your veterinarian regularly can make all the difference.

⚠️ Signs of Cancer in Pets
Watch for any of these persistent signs:

- Lumps or abnormal swelling, especially if new or changing
- Non-healing wounds
- Weight loss, loss of appetite, or difficulty eating
- Tumours in the mouth, throat, or a**s
- Lameness or lethargy
- Chronic vomiting, diarrhea, or bleeding
- Respiratory issues; coughing or trouble breathing

If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian promptly. Early detection is the best defence.
Read more: https://www.albertaanimalhealthsource.ca/content/pets-and-cancer

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global concern that affects people, animals, and the environment. It occurs ...
11/18/2025

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global concern that affects people, animals, and the environment. It occurs when bacteria develop the ability to defeat the drugs designed to kill them. These resistant bacteria can pass this trait to their offspring and other bacteria, making infections harder to treat. Rapid bacterial reproduction accelerates the spread of resistance, threatening the effectiveness of life-saving medications.

The Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (ABVMA) supports responsible antimicrobial use as part of our One Health commitment — protecting animal health, public health, and the environment. Tackling AMR requires a unified effort across humans and animals. Pet owners, food producers, and veterinarians all play a role in using antimicrobials wisely, preventing infections, and following medical guidance.

We’re excited to share that Carrie from Castleridge Veterinary Clinic is our RVT Month contest winner! 🎉A big thank you ...
11/14/2025

We’re excited to share that Carrie from Castleridge Veterinary Clinic is our RVT Month contest winner! 🎉

A big thank you to all the RVTs and clinics who joined in.

Lunch is coming your way, Castleridge team!

November is National Pet Diabetes Month.Pets, like people, can develop diabetes when their insulin production or usage i...
11/14/2025

November is National Pet Diabetes Month.
Pets, like people, can develop diabetes when their insulin production or usage is impaired. Early detection helps ensure better outcomes.

Signs to watch for:
- Increased thirst or drinking more water than usual.
- More frequent urination or accidents in the house.
- Weight loss despite eating normally (or increased appetite with weight loss).
- Lethargy, reduced energy, or changes in appearance/coat condition (thin, dry, dull).

If you notice any of these signs in your pet, please talk to your veterinarian.
For more information, visit: https://tr.ee/MMkg2M

On November 11, we pause to remember and think of all the veterans, first responders and all the front-line workers who ...
11/11/2025

On November 11, we pause to remember and think of all the veterans, first responders and all the front-line workers who sacrificed and continue to sacrifice to keep us all safe. We are grateful and thankful for your service.

While the red poppy honours those who wore the uniform, the purple poppy recognizes those who stood alongside them – animals who served in wartime. Horses, dogs, pigeons, and others carried messages, pulled supplies, and offered comfort in moments of fear and uncertainty.

Their contributions were quiet but vital, and many gave their lives in service. The ABVMA honours the contributions of every life given in service.

Radiation safety is everyone’s responsibility. This week, we are reminding veterinary teams that protecting staff and pa...
11/07/2025

Radiation safety is everyone’s responsibility. This week, we are reminding veterinary teams that protecting staff and patients from ionizing radiation and proper use of class 3B/4 lasers, is essential.

Yesterday, the ABVMA hosted a Laser Regulations and Safety webinar called "An Overview of Laser Regulations and Safety in Alberta Veterinary Practices." It was presented by Devin Baillie, owner and chief physicist at Filipow Associates Inc., an Authorized Radiation Protection Inspection Agency (ARPIA). Devin talked about:

- The risks of laser beams and other hazards for Class 3B/ 4 lasers
- Responsibilities for laser operators
- Duties of a Laser Safety Officer (LSO)
- How to develop a laser safety program
- Staff training, safety procedures, and laser-specific eyewear

When using radiation equipment, remember the ALARA principle, which means keeping your dose as low as reasonably achievable:
- Always wear the right PPE, including a thyroid collar, lead apron, gloves, and goggles, with your dosimeter badge worn underneath the apron
- Use hands-free techniques whenever possible to reduce exposure
- For class 3B/4 lasers, make sure your equipment is inspected and registered, your team is trained, and everyone wears the correct laser safety eyewear

If you missed the webinar, you can access the recording on your ABVMA member portal.
Whether you are using X-rays or lasers, following proper radiation safety practices protects everyone.

November 3 is One Health Day - a reminder that the health of animals, people, and the environment are all connected.Our ...
11/03/2025

November 3 is One Health Day - a reminder that the health of animals, people, and the environment are all connected.

Our vision captures what One Health is all about: Healthy animals and people in a healthy environment.

From caring for our animals to keeping food systems strong, protecting ecosystems and preventing disease, veterinarians play a vital role in supporting the health of our communities, and the world we share.

ABVMA had a successful event at the Alberta Legislature today with our partners from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine ...
10/29/2025

ABVMA had a successful event at the Alberta Legislature today with our partners from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine - University of Calgary - UCVM, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), Alberta Veterinary Technologist Association - ABVTA, and Alberta Beef Producers. We'd like to thank all of the elected officials and staff who attended to learn more about the profession and ongoing work to respond to the veterinarian and veterinary technologist shortage in Alberta.

We'd also like to extend a special thank you to Minister RJ Sigurdson and Minister Myles McDougall. Both have been champions of the profession, and their efforts will help to advance animal health and welfare for Albertans, and support the economic prosperity of rural communities and livestock and poultry producers. A strong workforce of veterinarians and veterinary technologists not only helps animals - it ensures a secure food-supply chain and protects public health.

Through capital and operational investment, the Government of Alberta has demonstrated support for the long-term sustainability of the profession. The UCVM is a world-class institution that will serve Albertans for generations to come due to the government's investment in the facility and its students. Thank you to the Government of Alberta for supporting the much-needed expansion of educational opportunities in this space.

We also wanted to thank MLAs Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk and Jackie Lovely for delivering remarks today, and for their ongoing support. We look forward to continuing our work together to establish Alberta as the best place in the world to practice veterinary medicine.

2025 John Waters Zoonotic Diseases WorkshopTuesday, November 4, 2025 | 8 A.M. – 5 P.M. | OnlineThe John Waters Zoonotic ...
10/27/2025

2025 John Waters Zoonotic Diseases Workshop

Tuesday, November 4, 2025 | 8 A.M. – 5 P.M. | Online

The John Waters Zoonotic Diseases Workshop is moving fully online for 2025! Join veterinarians, public health experts, and researchers for a full day of sessions focused on emerging zoonotic disease issues, prevention, and response.

Earn ABVMA CPD credit and gain valuable insights from leading experts — all from the comfort of your workspace.

Register Here: tr.ee/kwvLk9

Address

300, 4803-87 Street NW
Edmonton, AB
T6E0V3

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4pm
Tuesday 8am - 4pm
Wednesday 8am - 4pm
Thursday 8am - 4pm
Friday 8am - 4pm

Telephone

780-489-5007

Website

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