The Veterinary Medical Centre (VMC) at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) has made a recent decision to cease accepting wildlife for treatment and rehabilitation. This is part of a scheduled 3 week ZEW services closure from July 22-August 17, 2026. The end date for wildlife has yet to be determined, and has the potential to become permanent. The decision abut reopening is deeply concerning for both wildlife in Saskatchewan and the future of veterinary education in Canada. We call upon the administration of WCVM to reconsider this decision for the following reasons:

**Impact on Wildlife in Saskatchewan:**
Saskatchewan is home to a diverse array of wildlife species that are integral to the health of our ecosystems. Injured and sick wildlife require expert medical attention and rehabilitation to recover and be successfully reintroduced into their natural habitats. By discontinuing these services at the VMC, we are not only compromising the well-being of individual animals but also the ecological balance of the region. Wildlife rehabilitation centers play a crucial role in conservation efforts in Saskatchewan, with many animals able to return to the wild after treatment. These centers need the support of the WCVM's VMC practicing wildlife medicine or animal welfare will suffer.

**Educational and Professional Development:**
For veterinary students, hands-on experience with wildlife is invaluable. It allows them to develop a comprehensive skill set, ensuring they are prepared to handle a wide range of cases in their careers. Gaining experience in treating wildlife gives students the ability to learn how to deal with zoonotic disease, a skill of critical importance for protecting public health. WCVM's program has been a leader in Canada for providing diverse learning opportunities, and removing wildlife medicine from its program will significantly diminish the educational experience for students, impacting their future career prospects and contributions to veterinary science.

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We passionately urge the Western College of Veterinary Medicine to retract this decision and continue providing wildlife treatment and rehabilitation. The future of our wildlife and the education of prospective veterinarians depend on it. Join us in advocating for the welfare of Saskatchewan's creatures and the integrity of veterinary professionals. Sign this petition to make a difference in preserving our wildlife and enhancing veterinary education in Canada.