Practice Advisory Service

The practice advisory service is available to anyone seeking information related to the regulations, policy and expectations associated with the practice of veterinary medicine in Ontario. This service is free and confidential. By facilitating access to relevant information, practice advisors support veterinarians in providing quality care and service and assist the public with their understanding of the professional obligations of veterinarians licensed in Ontario.

Here to assist you

We want to hear from you, and your questions are important to us. Our team of practice advisors can assist you with clear information. 

Here are some ways you can contact our team:

Email practiceadvice@cvo.org

Call 1-800-424-2856 extension 2401

We monitor voicemail and email messages left with the practice advisory service during regular business hours and our goal is to respond the same day. We will respond within two business days of receiving the question.

If your question is urgent and requires a response immediately, please call the College at (519) 824-5600 and press 0 during regular business hours (8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Thursday; 8:30 am to 4 pm Friday).

Please remember that the practice advisory service cannot provide:

• Legal advice or a legal opinion
• Veterinary medical advice or a medical opinion, or
• An opinion about the conduct of a veterinarian that relates to the College’s complaints or disciplinary process. 

What information are you looking for?

The practice advisory service receives questions about professional practice standards and expectations for veterinarians in Ontario.

If the information you are seeking is related to a specific team, please visit our staff directory to have your questions answered.

Trending Topics

Below are a few of the topics the College frequently receives questions about through its Practice Advisory Service.  Click on a topic to find relevant resources and answers to frequently asked questions.

Advertising & Social Media 

Cannabis & Veterinary Medicine

Medical Records

Prescribing & Dispensing

Animal Ownership & Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship

Find Additional Resources

If your question wasn’t addressed as a trending topic, or if you’re looking for further information, the following resources might be helpful to you:

• Policies and Professional Practice Standards
• Legislation
• Podcasts
• Videos