Changes to loan program for veterinarians and technicians

MELFORT, Sask. – There is a serious shortage of veterinarians and vet technicians across Canada that is causing concern for the livestock industry.

In response to those concerns the Saskatchewan Government introduced the Loan Forgiveness for Veterinarians and Veterinary Technologists program however there have been many requests to broaden it’s criteria.

Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit announced today the province is expanding eligibility to any Saskatchewan veterinary practice that offers veterinary services to livestock stakeholders from rural or remote communities.

The program is intended to attract veterinary professionals to work in rural areas by forgiving a portion of their Saskatchewan Student Loan debt for up to five years to a maximum of $20,000.

Marit said the expansion of the program is in addition to designated communities previously announced in 2021. The service threshold continues to be a minimum of 400 hours of services over a twelve-month period.

“We recognize that the veterinarian shortages in rural Saskatchewan will take ongoing collaboration to resolve,” Marit said. “The Government of Saskatchewan takes this issue seriously and is committed to continuing to find additional solutions.”

Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association Chair Arnold Balicki said it is a positive step forward. He said the shortage of vets can negatively impact the industry, the ability for livestock producers to expand, and access to medications.

“We had raised concerns with the government previously around the qualifying parameters for this program. We truly appreciate that they took our concerns to heart and made the necessary changes to allow clinics in larger centres such as Prince Albert, who also serve rural clients, to now qualify,” Balicki said.