Province and Winnipeg Humane Society invest $1.5M for affordable veterinary care in Indigenous communities

A new veterinary outreach program is getting $750,000 in funding from the Manitoba government.

The One Health Program will look to address animal health gaps and “create opportunities for improved and accessible care in remote and Indigenous communities across Manitoba.”

“This funding recognizes additional support is needed to address the barriers faced by communities in accessing veterinary care and other animal health interventions,” said Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations Minister Alan Lagimodiere. “Our investment will help ensure Manitoba remains a leader in animal health across Canada with improved preventative and educational measures.”

The funding from the province will also be matched by the Winnipeg Humane Society.

“We strive to build long-term relationships with communities across Manitoba; our goal is to build trust, learn and reconcile, and co-create and deliver community-engaged One Health programming,” said Jessica Miller, CEO, Winnipeg Humane Society. “It is important we focus on the link between animal and human health and well-being. Launching a program like this is not something one organization can do alone. It is only through our many allies and partners we have been able to bring this to fruition.”

The province says discussions will take place with Indigenous leaders to find ways to get to affordable veterinary care in those communities.

“The health of animals and people is interconnected, perhaps more than many people realize,” said Dr. Scott Zaari, Manitoba’s chief veterinary officer. “This program will support the best outcomes possible for companion animals in remote communities, which also supports the health and safety of the people and the community.”