Veterinarian in front of bright leaves
WCVM professor and anesthesiologist Dr. Barbara Ambros is the 2023 recipient of the CVMA Small Animal Practitioner Award. Photo: Christina Weese.

USask veterinary anesthesiologist awarded for advancing small animal medicine

University of Saskatchewan (USask) professor Dr. Barbara Ambros has earned the 2023 Canadian Veterinary Medical Association’s (CVMA) Small Animal Practitioner Award in recognition of her significant contributions to the advancement of small animal medicine and small animal practice.

Ambros is a board-certified veterinary anesthesiologist in the Western College of Veterinary Medicine's (WCVM) Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences. Born in Vienna, Austria, she received her veterinary degree from the Veterinary University of Vienna in Austria. After graduating, Ambros worked in a small animal referral clinic before moving to Canada and completing a residency and Master of Veterinary Science degree in veterinary anesthesia at the WCVM.

“Dr. Ambros joined the faculty at the WCVM after her residency in 2009. Since joining, she has shown dedication and determination to succeed. She is a respected clinical anesthesiologist and is proficient at managing sedation, anesthesia and analgesia in many species," says WCVM professor emeritus Dr. Tanya Duke, a retired veterinary anesthesiologist. 

"Dr. Ambros is calm, focused on the animal in her care and has great attention to detail. Her colleagues trust her implicitly."

Ambros is a diplomate with both the European and American Colleges of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia. She enjoys the variety of her job: working with a variety of species, teaching undergraduate and graduate students, and pursuing research.

Ambros has a special interest in small mammal anesthesia and pain management, and she volunteers her time at spay and neuter clinics. In addition to her research, teaching and clinical roles, Ambros serves as a small animal clinical head in the WCVM's Veterinary Medical Centre. 

Sponsored by Petsecure Pet Health Insurance, this annual award recognizes a CVMA member whose work in small animal practice, clinical research or basic sciences has advanced small animal medicine, surgery or the management of a small animal practice. 

“Dr. Ambros has added significant knowledge in veterinary anesthesia and analgesia — allowing veterinarians in general and specialty practice to make more evidence-based decisions and raise the standard of care for patients undergoing anesthesia,” says Dr. Cindy Shmon, professor and head of the WCVM's Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences.

 Click here to read news story about other WCVM award recipients