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CVMA Membership Makes Life Easier
Veterinarians become veterinarians for the reasons you might expect:
- A love for animals
- Interest in biology
- A desire to make a positive impact
- An opportunity for travel
But veterinarians often end up carrying the weight of much more:
- Pain of seeing animals suffer
- Crushing stress of running a business
- Unfair expectations of perfection
Challenges, Amplified
With shortages of veterinarians and registered veterinary technologists and technicians and rising companion animal and large animal ownership, professionals face mounting pressure worsened by increasing business costs.
Veterinarians across Canada are calling out for support, and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) is here to answer that call.
The CVMA Has Your Back
For 76 years, the CVMA has represented Canadian veterinarians nationally and internationally.
Established by an Act of Parliament (11-12 George VI) in 1948, the CVMA protects, advises, and advocates for veterinarians, helping veterinarians grow as business owners and employers and offering assistance in times of professional or personal need.
A Seat At The Table
The CVMA makes sure your views on key issues, from dog importation to artificial intelligence integration, are heard by policymakers. We advocate for expanded mental health resources, investment in the veterinary workforce, and broader access to veterinary pharmaceuticals. The CVMA is your direct link to government agencies, including the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), the Veterinary Drugs Directorate (VDD), and Agriculture and Agri-food Canada.
When there is a policy issue that could benefit all Canadian veterinarians, the CVMA is your seat at the table.
A Shoulder To Lean On
CVMA membership includes access to a full insurance package with the following:
- Critical incident stress debriefing
- Coach-led cognitive behavioural therapy
- Two hours of free expert HR support
- Twelve hours of free counselling for staff
Additionally, you have access to national wellness programs like:
- Togetherall
- The Working Mind courses
- Time to Talk webinars
- Plus, an upcoming cyberbullying and crisis management hotline
When life gets overwhelming, lean on the CVMA.
A Supporter Of Your Business
CVMA members gain access to a national business management program that enhances operations, hiring, and marketing. Members receive exclusive discounts and priority access to national conventions for networking and professional development.
Plus, you’ll have exclusive access to the CVMA Immigration Concierge Service to help connect you with immigration experts and officials to streamline international hiring.
When your business is ready to grow, get support from the CVMA.
Opportunities To Give Back And Be Recognized
The CVMA offers members ways to shape the profession by volunteering on committees and advisory groups, influencing policy, and supporting industry growth. Members are also eligible for national awards recognizing outstanding contributions to veterinary medicine. Get involved, make an impact, and be celebrated for your dedication.
When you want to make an impact, find opportunities through the CVMA.
A Trusted News Source
The Canadian Veterinary Journal, published by the CVMA, is a go-to resource for Canadian veterinarians. Members receive twice-monthly eNewsletters with updates from Canadian and global veterinary sectors, investment options, and CVMA initiatives. An online national job bank is available on the Classified Ads section of our website.
When you want to know, find out through the CVMA.
A Protector Of Canadian Veterinary Medicine
The CVMA supports the future of veterinary medicine through national programs for students, accreditation via the independent National Examining Board (NEB), and opportunities for global collaboration. CVMA members can serve on the NEB and various other committees and working groups, helping uphold the highest professional standards and keeping Canada competitive.
For a strong future in Canadian veterinary medicine, partner with the CVMA.
Advocating For Animal Sentience
Earlier this year, the CVMA addressed animal sentience during its annual convention.
Animal Sentience: What Does It Mean, Why Is It Difficult to Define, and What Effect May It Have on the Veterinary Profession?, examined the evolving recognition of sentience in animals, explored why sentience is a polarizing issue that has the potential to bring animal rights groups and the animal industry into conflict with each other, and explained why politicians are hesitant to get involved in discussions.
“The CVMA has a long history of advocating for improving the welfare of all animals,” says Dr. Trevor Lawson, 2023–2024 CVMA President. “As the world evolves, so does our understanding of sentience and the expectations of the society we serve.”
“Veterinarians are the voice for animals,” argues Dr. Lawson. “We should always be willing to learn, grow, and consider the things we can do each day to improve the lives of animals under our care.”
Goals For A Better Future
Moving into the future, we are guided by five unwavering goals:
- A robust workforce meeting Canada’s needs in animal and public health
- A healthy work environment for veterinarians
- Effective advocacy for veterinary interests
- Enhanced public trust and value
- A sustainable, long-term outlook for the profession
We've made progress, but there's more to do for Canada’s more than 15,000 veterinarians. With our strong legacy, a few new members can greatly enhance our support. Join us.
Join CVMA As A New Veterinarian
Launching a career in veterinary medicine can be overwhelming. The new CVMA Mentorship Program will help all veterinarians connect and gain support. Wherever you are on your journey, the CVMA is here to guide you.
Together Our Future Is Brighter
The best part of joining the CVMA is the community. The connections you make will enrich both your career and the profession as a whole. Join the CVMA and put the power of your profession in your corner.