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Apr 4, 2022 11:12 PM - The Canadian Press

B.C. doubles number of subsidized seats in veterinary college to address shortage

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The BC government says it's taking steps to help alleviate a shortage of veterinarians by doubling the number of seats it subsidizes at veterinary college. (Photo - The Canadian Press)

The BC government says it's taking steps to help alleviate a shortage of veterinarians by doubling the number of seats it subsidizes at veterinary college.

Advanced Education Minister Anne Kang says the province will provide nearly 10.7-million dollars to support 40 students entering the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in Saskatchewan this fall, up from 20.

Kang says BC is also considering how to improve the recognition of foreign credentials and looking at opportunities for veterinarians who would like to move to BC to help shorten wait times for the care of pets and livestock.

Victoria veterinarian Dr. Helen Bell welcomed the news, saying vets and their staff have been burning out under a the ``crushing workload.''

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