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Information for the Public

The College protects your right to safe, competent and ethical veterinary care. When you require the services of a veterinarian, you can expect to receive safe, quality care from a highly-trained licensed professional.

Investigations & Hearings

The public trusts the College to address concerns about a veterinarian’s practice or conduct. The College oversees the professional conduct of Ontario’s veterinarians as it receives, investigates, and acts upon matters brought to its attention.

Conduct issues are screened by two Committees (Executive and Complaints) depending on the concern and the breadth of the investigation necessary. A panel of peers, inclusive of a public representative, review and examine the details of each case individually.

Case decisions made from this process can include:

  • closed with no action
  • closed as frivolous and vexatious
  • provision of advice related to improving practice
  • agreeing to a process of remediation or
  • referral to the discipline process

Issues of fitness to practice or impairment are dealt with solely by the Executive Committee and separately from discipline.

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Ask a Practice Advisor

The College's practice advisors provide information on the regulations, policy and expectations associated with the practice of veterinary medicine in Ontario.