Council has approved a strategy for the College to use its position and influence to develop a specific strategy that will bring meaningful change to antimicrobial prescribing patterns by veterinarians in Ontario .
Strategy 2026 cont ’ d CVO Annual Report 2024 | 11
Promoting the importance of One Health
The College Council recognizes the importance of broader animal and human health initiatives within its strategic considerations . A One Health approach to public policy has been gaining momentum for several years ; its importance for animals , humans and the environment is increasingly recognized in broader society . While the College must consider how veterinary regulation intersects with the broad array of issues that are constantly evolving , Council remains committed to its role as a convenor and influencer of discussion and action .
One Health promotional kit : A One Health Promotional Kit , an initiative of the One Health Working Group , was launched early in 2024 to help veterinary teams engage clients in One Health conversations . The kit includes posters and social media graphics to encourage companion animal clients to provide more relevant information about their health and environment in conversations with their veterinary teams . The kit is provided in conjunction with the OVMA and OAVT .
Farm family checklist : The health of farm families sparked development of a new and easy-to-use checklist that will improve conversations between family members and their health care team , which includes veterinarians . With information around animal exposure , zoonotic diseases , water sources and food supply , health care providers will have a broader awareness and understanding of the potential risks and be equipped to promote better health care for farm families . The checklist is available on the College website and is shared with the support of various partners in the agriculture industry .
Community vaccinator program : The College has been exploring work related to community vaccinator programs . A national guide on this topic is anticipated and will provide discussion consideration for next steps . Conversations are ongoing in this area .
Emergency preparedness : The College continues to forge a relationship with the Emergency Management Office to support understanding the role of the veterinary profession in declared emergencies , particularly those emergencies related to climate change .
Antimicrobial stewardship : The College remains attentive to its commitment to provide education on the role of veterinary teams in antimicrobial stewardship . While the federal government has had a Pan-Canadian plan for many years to address antimicrobial pharmaceutical use in animals , to protect people , animals and trade markets , its first plan was overshadowed by the global pandemic . The plan was refreshed in 2023 and is now having increased attention with an oversight Committee now being led by Animal Health Canada .
Council has approved a strategy for the College to use its position and influence to develop a specific strategy that will bring meaningful change to antimicrobial prescribing patterns by veterinarians in Ontario .