Profession-based regulation
In Ontario, veterinarians have the privilege of profession-based regulation. This means the government trusts the veterinary profession to keep the public interest, rather than self-interest, at the forefront in regulating the practice and conduct of veterinarians.
There are mechanisms in place to ensure the work of the College is guided by the public interest. Public members are appointed by the provincial government to serve on Council and Committees. The College and Council are accountable to the provincial government through the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. The College is funded by the licence fees paid by each veterinarian in the province.
Ontario’s veterinarians value professionalism and are committed to ensuring that the public receives quality, ethical care. Regulatory Colleges, many of which exist in human health care, were established to protect the public’s right to safe, effective and ethical service.