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Saskatchewan Veterinary Practice Receives National Award for Establishing Excellent Workplace Culture and Providing Accessible and Affordable Care for First Nations Communities
June 27, 2024
Calgary, Alta. – The Melville Veterinary Clinic was recognized as the 2024 Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) Practice of the Year during the Annual CVMA Awards Gala on June 26 for outstanding achievement within their community.
The Melville Veterinary Clinic is a full-service, American Animal Hospital Association accredited, rural mixed animal practice serving east central Saskatchewan. Dr. Zachary Johnson and Ms. Kylie Johnson purchased the clinic in 2016 and have carried on the dedication to the community and continue building a supportive and healthy workplace that first began in 1974.
The clinic team consists of five veterinarians, seven registered veterinary technologists, and four support staff dedicated to providing progressive, compassionate veterinary care. The clinic is committed to lifelong learning, effective communication, and collaboration among team members to enhance work satisfaction and patient outcomes.
“The culture they have produced and nourished in their practice is truly admirable. Many team members have told us they enjoy going to work, working together, and are truly appreciative of the culture that has been established for them to thrive in,” says Dr. Justin Kristjansson and Dr. Samantha Tetlock, owners of Earl Grey Veterinary Services. “The respect and praise that seasoned colleagues and team members have for Dr. Johnson and Kylie is a true testament to what they have built and accomplished in their time in Melville.”
The Melville Veterinary Clinic creates connections and meaningful relationships through involvement in various community initiatives, volunteering, and local and regional sponsorships. The clinic is especially proud to offer vaccine clinics and spay and neuter programs with local First Nations communities to help reduce barriers to affordable veterinary care.
“The Melville Veterinary Clinic has supported our community by closing a barrier to pet care through access to vaccinations. The clinic went above and beyond to bring veterinary services to an Indigenous community whose members must travel 45 minutes to seek this medical care otherwise, explains Chief Cadmus Delorme of the Cowessess First Nation. “The clinic also sought out sponsorship and donations on behalf of Cowessess First Nation, traveled to the reserve, and offered two separate vaccination and flea and tick treatment sessions for the pets at a greatly reduced rate. The staff represented their clinic with pride and professionalism while caring for the animals of the reserve.”
The Melville Veterinary Clinic team is passionate about providing mentorship and a positive learning environment for staff and students interested in mixed animal practice. The clinic has hosted numerous veterinary, registered veterinary technologist, and Veterinary Medical Assistant students during their practicums and externships, many of whom have chosen to join the team.
Established in 2013, the CVMA Practice of the Year Award is sponsored by Scotiabank, a leader in banking services for professionals. The award recognizes a veterinary practice team for outstanding achievement within their local community. Such achievements may include innovations in provision of veterinary services, commitment to work-life balance, meaningful community or charitable involvement, or implementation of green practice procedures.
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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