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.

Did you know veterinarians play a key role in food safety?This World Veterinary Day, we’re recognizing this year’s theme...
04/25/2026

Did you know veterinarians play a key role in food safety?

This World Veterinary Day, we’re recognizing this year’s theme: “Veterinarians: Guardians of Food and Health.” Veterinarians are part of the system that helps keep food safe long before it reaches your table. Through their work with livestock, herd health, disease prevention, and on-farm practices, they support both animal health and public health every day.

These photos highlight members of our Council/Committee and the work they do across Alberta. Their work often happens behind the scenes, but it plays an important role in maintaining safe, reliable food systems.

Thank you to our members, and to veterinary professionals everywhere, for the work you do to protect animals, food, and communities.

04/24/2026

This National Volunteer Week (April 19–25), we’re recognizing the dedication and impact of volunteers who help make the work of the Canadian Animal Task Force possible across Alberta.

From large-scale community clinics to daily veterinary care, volunteers are foundational to everything they do. One important part of that work is Task Force Animal Hospital — a not-for-profit veterinary hospital and one piece of the larger CATF mission to support both animals and the people who care for them. Strengthening the human-animal bond.

This year alone, more than 600 patients have already received care through TFAH, supported by both clinical and non-clinical volunteers. One of the most essential behind-the-scenes roles is the Autoclave Team, responsible for cleaning, sterilizing, and preparing surgical packs for every procedure. Last year alone, this small group processed more than 1,300 surgical packs, supporting everything from routine spay/neuter surgeries to more complex medical cases.

That same volunteer impact is felt through community spay-neuter clinics, including a recent Community Cat Clinic in partnership with Taber and veterinary care provided at the Task Force Animal Hospital located in Calgary. Over just a few days, 215 cats were assisted, including 157 spay/neuter surgeries, additional medical treatment, and ongoing support for community cats needing extra care before returning home to their caregivers.

This weekend, Task Force teams are in Saddle Lake Cree Nation for an on-site Spay and Neuter Clinic (April 24–26, northeast of Edmonton). With the weather creating difficult travel conditions, they could especially use extra help from local volunteers who may be nearby or able to safely make the trip.

If you’re available and would like to support, please visit their website:
🔗 cataskforce.org/volunteer

Happy Earth Day!At the ABVMA, our vision is clear: healthy animals and people in a healthy environment. Veterinary profe...
04/22/2026

Happy Earth Day!

At the ABVMA, our vision is clear: healthy animals and people in a healthy environment. Veterinary professionals play a key role in this mission, caring for animals, supporting public health, and promoting sustainable practices that protect our planet.

This Earth Day, we celebrate the work of veterinarians across Alberta who help ensure that animal care, human health, and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. Every contribution from clinics, farms, and communities helps create a healthier world for all.

Did you know?About 1 in 3 pets will go missing at some point in their lives.During National Pet ID Week, it’s a reminder...
04/20/2026

Did you know?
About 1 in 3 pets will go missing at some point in their lives.
During National Pet ID Week, it’s a reminder that identification is one of the most effective ways to help bring them home.

Microchipped pets are significantly more likely to be reunited with their owners, but only if the information is registered and kept up to date. Visible ID tags also play an important role, often allowing pets to return home without ever entering a shelter.

If it’s been a while, take a moment to check your pet’s ID. A current tag and updated microchip can make all the difference.

This National Dog Bite Prevention Week, it's a good time to remember: even good dogs bite, and most bites are preventabl...
04/14/2026

This National Dog Bite Prevention Week, it's a good time to remember: even good dogs bite, and most bites are preventable.

Dogs communicate through body language. When those signals are missed or misunderstood, situations can escalate quickly. Common signs of stress or discomfort include stiff posture, lip licking, growling, or avoiding eye contact.

Children are at the highest risk of serious dog bites, often during everyday interactions at home or with familiar dogs.

Prevention starts with awareness:
- Give dogs space when they're eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies.
- Avoid unfamiliar dogs unless invited by the owner.
- Teach children how to approach and interact safely.

If you're unsure about your dog's behaviour, speak with your veterinarian. Early guidance can make a lasting difference.

Spring is here, and for many horse owners, that means gearing up for show season. A pre-season check-in with your veteri...
04/11/2026

Spring is here, and for many horse owners, that means gearing up for show season. A pre-season check-in with your veterinarian can help identify any underlying issues, review vaccination schedules, and ensure your horse is fit for the increased demands of training and travel.

With increased movement between farms and events, biosecurity also becomes especially important this time of year. Limiting direct contact with unfamiliar horses, avoiding shared water sources, and keeping equipment clean between uses can help reduce the risk of disease spread.

Even small steps, like washing hands or changing clothing between barns, can make a difference. A little preparation now can help keep your horse performing at their best all season long.

04/07/2026

This Heartworm Awareness Month, take a moment to check in on your pet’s protection.

As temperatures rise, so does mosquito activity — and it only takes one bite from an infected mosquito to transmit heartworm. While the risk in Alberta is lower than in some regions, cases do happen, especially in dogs that travel or have spent time in higher-risk areas.

Heartworm can be serious and often shows no early symptoms, which is why prevention is so important. Monthly preventives, regular testing, and reducing exposure to mosquitoes are the most effective ways to keep your pet safe.

This Heartworm Awareness Month, talk to your veterinarian about the right prevention plan for your dog.

As we celebrate Easter this spring, many homes and public spaces are filled with fresh flowers, especially lilies. While...
04/02/2026

As we celebrate Easter this spring, many homes and public spaces are filled with fresh flowers, especially lilies. While they look beautiful, many types, such as Easter, tiger, and Asiatic lilies, are highly toxic to cats. Even a small amount, such as licking a few pollen grains off fur or drinking water from the vase, can cause serious kidney problems. Dogs are less sensitive but can still get an upset stomach.

Tips to keep pets safe this Easter:

- Keep lilies away from homes with cats

- Clean up any fallen petals or pollen right away

- Choose pet-safe flowers whenever possible

If a pet comes into contact with lilies, contact a veterinarian right away because early care makes a big difference. Celebrate safely this spring and keep your pets out of harm’s way.

Please note our office will be closed on Good Friday, April 3, 2026, and Easter Monday, April 6, 2026.

Today is World Autism Awareness Day - an opportunity to recognize autism and celebrate neurodiversity across all profess...
04/02/2026

Today is World Autism Awareness Day - an opportunity to recognize autism and celebrate neurodiversity across all professions, including veterinary medicine.

People with autism and other forms of neurodiversity are part of veterinary teams across Alberta. Their perspectives, strengths, and ways of thinking bring real value to how we solve problems, connect with clients, and care for animals.

We’re sharing an article that highlights neurodiversity in veterinary medicine and why it matters to our profession.

Take a moment to read:
https://albertaanimalhealthsource.ca/content/neurodiversity-veterinary-medicine

04/01/2026

As warmer weather approaches, ticks will soon become more active. Now’s the time to start checking your furry (and not-so-furry) friends.

Ticks can affect pets like dogs and cats, as well as livestock such as cattle, sheep, and horses.

Regular checks after time spent in grassy or wooded areas can help you spot ticks early.

If you find a tick on an animal:

• Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible
• Pull straight upward slowly — avoid twisting or squeezing the tick
• Clean the bite area with soap and water or an antiseptic
• Wash your hands thoroughly after removal

Prompt and proper removal can help reduce the risk of disease transmission.

Want to learn more about ticks and tick-borne diseases in Canada? Watch this presentation from Canadian tick expert Dr. Robbin Lindsay:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=286088359130922

For more information on tick prevention and safe removal, visit:
https://albertaanimalhealthsource.ca/content/tick-prevention-removal

If you have questions about ticks or prevention strategies, talk to your veterinarian about the best options for your animals.

As warm weather approaches in Alberta, mosquitoes—which are the main carriers of West Nile Virus will soon become active...
03/31/2026

As warm weather approaches in Alberta, mosquitoes—which are the main carriers of West Nile Virus will soon become active. Not every horse exposed will get sick, but the virus can cause serious neurological illness and, in some cases, be fatal.

Vaccination is the most effective way to protect your horse. Administering vaccines before mosquito season allows time for immunity to develop, and annual boosters help maintain that protection. Your veterinarian can help determine the right schedule for your horse based on local risk.

Along with vaccination, reducing mosquito exposure, such as removing standing water and avoiding outdoor activity during peak mosquito hours, adds another layer of protection.

Work with your veterinarian this spring to review your horse’s vaccination plan and keep them healthy through the season.

We were very pleased to join Minister Sigurdson yesterday in support of updates to Alberta’s Animal Protection Act.Veter...
03/31/2026

We were very pleased to join Minister Sigurdson yesterday in support of updates to Alberta’s Animal Protection Act.

Veterinary professionals play a critical role in protecting animal health and welfare across Alberta - caring for animals in clinics, supporting producers, and stepping in when animals are in distress. The proposed amendments help close gaps, strengthen enforcement, and better support those on the ground in responding to animals in need. These are meaningful steps that will help improve outcomes and ensure animals receive appropriate care when it matters most.

We appreciate the Government of Alberta and Minister Sigurdson for taking these steps and look forward to continuing this work together.

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

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