Vetavision a 45-year tradition at WCVM
One year after the Western College of Veterinary Medicine's new building officially opened in 1969, veterinary students were eager to open the college's doors to the public and share information about their new profession.
By WCVM TodayInspired by the annual shows at other universities, the veterinary students developed the concept for Vetavision — veterinary medicine's version of a public open house.
The new show, which organizers decided to hold every three years, garnered widespread enthusiasm from WCVM students who were determined to make the project a success. With the support of WCVM Dean D.L.T. (Larry) Smith, the students chose Nov. 12-14, 1970, as the date for WCVM's inaugural Vetavision.
The students' leader was veterinary student Brian Svenson ("The Boss") of High River, Alta., a member of the WCVM's Class of 1971 and the college's first Vetavision co-ordinator. Planning for the first show began in 1968 and soon involved the entire school body. Students organized activities, displays, talks and tours that would catch the public's attention. WCVM faculty also contributed space, equipment, funds and advice — but the students made all of the major decisions since Vetavision was their brainchild.
Through the efforts of Svenson and his representatives who had promoted Vetavision at veterinary conventions across Canada, the first WCVM open house was an outstanding success that attracted thousands of people and students from all over Western Canada. From the always-popular Kiddies' Korral and tours of the microbiology labs to an impressive reconstruction of a rearing horse's skeleton, Vetavision offered information and activities that interested people of all ages.
But it was the students' enthusiasm for their profession that many visitors considered to be the most impressive aspect of Vetavision. Always on hand and and eager to answer questions, the students' knowledge and willingness to engage the public resulted in the success of Vetavision and cemented it as one of the WCVM's most important community relations efforts for many decades to come.
Fifty-four years later, WCVM students hosted Vetavision in September 2024 at the veterinary college on the University of Saskatchewan campus. Visitors of all ages explored the WCVM's facilities and learned more about all aspects of the veterinary profession through a variety of demonstrations, tours, talks, activities and displays.
Source: WCVM: The First Decade and More by Christopher H. Bigland.
The WCVM is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2025. Throughout the year, WCVM Today will post stories that highlight the WCVM's history as well as its people, programs and successes.
Visit the WCVM Turns 60 web page for more details about the college's 60th anniversary celebrations.