As the loving guardians of our four-legged friends in Fort McMurray, we find ourselves at a loss. The reality of booking an appointment for our pets' healthcare has become challenging: the lack of timeliness appointments, emergency after hours care and times and costs associated with last minute appointments make it difficult to get the care we need for our four legged children. Emotionally, it is hard to see our beloved animals suffer because we simply cannot get them the care they need promptly.  The 5 hour drive to Edmonton to access animal care is just not right.  Our animals are suffering and require medication/sedation to survive the drive. 

We are not a small pet-owning community. With an estimate of over 40,000 pets in 2018, the demand for veterinary services is enormous. But our ability to ensure timely and quality care for each of these animals is being severely hampered by a significant shortage of veterinarians and support staff in our area.  With the limited number of veterinary services in town who we need help NOW!

The issue is we are forced to plan months ahead for emergency care, routine check-ups or wellness visits for our pets' healthcare needs or shoulder the extra burden of emergency appointments costs. This situation is both stressful and unsustainable.

Therefore, we urge the provincial government of Alberta to immediately take action to urgently address this critical issue. Fort McMurray needs a solid plan in place that supports the hiring and retention of both veterinarians and their support staff.

Some potential measures that could be considered include:

 1. Incentives for Veterinary Professionals:

Providing financial incentives, such as loan forgiveness programs or relocation bonuses, to attract veterinarians and veterinary technicians to Fort McMurray.

 2. Support for Veterinary Education:

Increasing funding for veterinary education programs and offering scholarships specifically for students who commit to working in underserved areas like Fort McMurray.

 3. Telemedicine and Mobile Clinics:

Expanding telemedicine services and supporting mobile veterinary clinics to ensure that residents in remote areas have access to veterinary care

 4. Partnerships and Collaboration:

Encouraging partnerships between local governments, veterinary schools, and professional associations to create a sustainable pipeline of veterinary professionals for the region.

Addressing the veterinary staff shortages in Fort McMurray is not only essential for the health and welfare of our animals but also for the overall well-being of our community. I respectfully request that the provincial government prioritize this issue and implement measures to ensure that Fort McMurray has the necessary veterinary resources to meet its needs.

Let's create an environment where our pets can thrive, not just survive. Let's bring about the change our pets deserve—together.

Please sign this petition and nudge the provincial government toward action. Your signature can be the lifeline our pets need right now.