Nova Scotia Veterinarian Honoured with Prestigious Professional Award

June 27, 2024

Calgary, Alta. – Dr. Frank Richardson received the 2024 Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) President’s Award for his long and dedicated service to the association and his tireless contributions to the veterinary profession during the Annual CVMA Awards Gala on June 26.

Born in Quispamsis, N.B., Dr. Richardson’s early aspirations of becoming a veterinarian became a reality in 1976 when he graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College. After briefly practicing in Newfoundland, he spent most of his career in small animal medicine and surgery in Nova Scotia where he opened Richardson Animal Hospital in 1990. Dr. Richardson attended Saint Mary’s University earning a Master of Business Administration in 1999 and subsequently opened Practice One Consulting, a company that provides practice valuations and consulting services to veterinarians across Canada.

Internationally recognized for his contributions to veterinary regulation, from 1990-2022, Dr. Richardson served as the Nova Scotia Veterinary Medical Association Registrar while continuing to practice full-time. Dr. Richardson is currently President-Elect of the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) and will become the first Canadian to serve as President of the AAVSB in September 2024.

"Dr. Richardson has served in many volunteer capacities for the benefit of veterinarians across Canada and was integral in bringing Registered Veterinary Technicians under Nova Scotia legislation during his 30-year tenure as Registrar. He has been a staunch ally of the CVMA and organized veterinary medicine, and continues to be a leader in our profession building strong relationships with colleagues across North America,” says Dr. Trevor Lawson, 2023-2024 CVMA President.

As a dedicated supporter of the CVMA, having attended every CVMA convention since 1976, Dr. Richardson chaired the CVMA Convention Committees in 1990 and 2001 in Halifax. He has served on numerous CVMA committees, including the Economic Committee and the Animal Health Technology/Veterinary Technician Program Accreditation Committee.

“I have met few individuals as devoted to the betterment of our profession and the CVMA as Dr. Richardson. He has served in many capacities as a practice owner, mentoring new veterinarians, volunteering with the CVMA, and being a leading voice for improved business management and success of veterinary practices in Canada," adds Dr. Lawson. 

Dr. Richardson is married to his supportive wife, Wendy. They have two children and two grandchildren. His passions include summertime boating in Nova Scotia and wintering in Florida. The CVMA President's Award recognizes an individual member for their exceptional contributions and devotion to the association. Recipients are selected by the President and the CVMA Executive Committee. 

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The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) is the national and international voice for Canada’s veterinarians, providing leadership and advocacy for veterinary medicine. Each year, the CVMA proudly recognizes individuals and groups for their outstanding contribution to veterinary medicine. Visit canadianveterinarians.net to learn more about the CVMA.

Contact:   

Ashley Dupont
Communications Officer
Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA)
613-236-1162 ext. 125
adupont@cvma-acmv.org