VETERINARY TECHNICIAN WEEK PROCLAIMED

Today, Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud proclaimed the week of October 10-16, as Veterinary Technician Week in Saskatchewan.

"Veterinary technicians play a significant role in the health and welfare of livestock and provide a valuable service to Saskatchewan farmers and ranchers," Bjornerud said. "This proclamation recognizes their efforts and contributions to the overall success of our agriculture industry."

Bjornerud made the provincial proclamation in conjunction with National Veterinary Technician Week, which is observed across Canada and the United States. In Saskatchewan, the week is sponsored by the Saskatchewan Association of Veterinary Technologists (SAVT), which was formed in 1984 to serve and support veterinary technicians in the province.

SAVT works to improve animal health and welfare, and to promote the profession by emphasizing high standards of education and continuing education for veterinary technicians.

"Veterinary Technician Week is our time to promote the veterinary technician profession, so that people will better understand and appreciate what we do," SAVT President-Elect Amanda Shea said.

Veterinary technicians work for various organizations including: veterinary clinics; university clinics and laboratories; feedlots; hog and poultry barns; zoos; and pet food and pharmaceutical companies. Veterinary technicians are responsible for performing diagnostic testing, radiographic imaging, anaesthesia, medical and surgical nursing and daily care of animals, among other duties.

"Veterinary technicians are in high demand, especially in rural centres," head of the Biotechnology and Veterinary Technology Programs at SIAST's Kelsey Campus in Saskatoon Dr. Joanne Post said. "SIAST is proud to be the provider of training for technicians in the animal health and veterinary fields for the past 30 years."

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For more information, contact:

Patrick Boyle
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359
Email: Patrick.Boyle@gov.sk.ca