The veterinarian behind Canada’s animal lifeline
When Dr. Ken Mould (DVM’75) picked up the phone on a fall day in 2024, he didn’t expect to hear someone from the Governor General’s office on the other end of the line.
WCVM-based graduate students celebrate academic milestones at USask Spring Convocation
The University of Saskatchewan’s 2025 Spring Convocation ceremonies on June 4 will include a group of 19 post-secondary students based at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) who have completed their graduate and certificate programs.
Veterinary medicine’s ‘balloon pilot’: Dr. Ole Nielsen
Dr. Ole Nielsen (DVM, PhD), a former dean of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) and one of Canada’s veterinary visionaries, passed away on Wednesday, May 28, at the age of 95.
‘Everyone needs a Chonk’: how one cat changed a girl’s life
Passing time in a pet store in a city that’s 250 kilometres from home isn’t where you might expect to meet the pet that will change your life — but that was the case for the Helgason family of Kindersley, Sask.
Provinces renew commitment to veterinary training in Western Canada
Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Manitoba have renewed their financial commitment to the University of Saskatchewan’s Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM), continuing a longstanding interprovincial agreement that has been in place for six decades.
Accreditation vital ‘stamp of approval’ for veterinary hospital
All facets of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) Veterinary Medical Centre (VMC) were recently under the microscope as the facility underwent its latest accreditation site visit — a rigorous process that resulted in renewed accreditation status from a leading North American organization for veterinary hospitals.
USask faculty members honoured with distinguished professorship titles
The honorary title of distinguished professor is an award that celebrates lifetime achievement in research, scholarly, and artistic work. Three University of Saskatchewan (USask) faculty members and two professors emerti were selected to receive the honorary title this year.
Collaboration creates new surgical training opportunity for veterinary students
A cross-campus collaboration between the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) and the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) created a new surgical suite that advances critical calf research while giving veterinary students rare surgical training opportunities.
Canine mammary cancer study explores new techniques for early detection
A Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) veterinary pathologist is leading new research that strives to improve methods for the early detection of canine mammary cancer — a common diagnosis of tumours in female dogs.
USask project supports health initiatives for African women and girls
A five-year global initiative in community health and One Health — in collaboration with University of Saskatchewan (USask) faculty and students — will help empower poor, marginalized farmers in rural Africa, especially female-headed households, women and girls.
Wrestling with success: Allison Kuzub takes skills learned on the mat to vet school
Balancing a demanding academic program in veterinary medicine with high-performance athletic pursuits would seem nearly impossible for most university students. But for Allison Kuzub, discipline, time management and a driving passion for both animal health and team wrestling have helped her thrive as a student athlete.
VIDO trainees selected for National One Health Training Program on Emerging Zoonoses
Two VIDO trainees selected for the inaugural cohort of the Canadian One Health Training Program on Emerging Zoonoses (COHTPEZ), a Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) funded initiative aimed at developing the next generation of experts in zoonotic disease research.
Pivotal moment: veterinary college’s 60-year milestone inspires change
As the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) celebrates its 60th year in 2025, the regional veterinary college looks ahead to meet the changing needs of its provincial partners and stakeholders across Western Canada and the North.
Horse Health Lines (Spring 2025) now online
The Spring 2025 issue of Horse Health Lines, news publication for the Western College of Veterinary Medicine’s (WCVM) Townsend Equine Health Research Fund, is now online.
Animal health research receives cash injection from Saskatchewan’s Agriculture Development Fund
University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers who are affiliated with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) have been awarded more than $2.46 million in financial support from Saskatchewan’s Agriculture Development Fund (ADF) for livestock-focused research projects in 2025.
New genomic sequencing diagnostic tool targets reproductive failure in cattle herds
A collaboration between researchers at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) and Prairie Diagnostic Services Inc. (PDS) has resulted in the creation of an innovative genomic sequencing tool for detecting multiple pathogens associated with bovine reproductive failure.
VIDO researchers collaborate with international team to unlock secrets of bat genomes
Bats are evolutionary marvels that have spent millions of years refining their genetic makeup. This lengthy genetic fine-tuning has likely allowed them to achieve impressive traits that make bats one of the most unique mammals in the world. And while it may seem like we don’t have much in common with bats, these unique creatures actually offer a lot of insight into how humans may get sick and even how we age.
New $24 million funding to spearhead pandemic preparedness research
While the world continues to recover from the last pandemic, a major investment from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) could help the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) prepare the world for the next infectious disease crisis.
Matching passion with practice in equine medicine
For veterinarians who are passionate about equine care, the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) offers a gateway to specialized expertise through its internship and residency programs. These programs equip the students with hands-on experience, expert mentorship, and an opportunity to advance their careers in equine medicine.
The blood flow balance: USask scientists test treatment for severe bleeding in trauma patients
During my 10 years of experience as a paramedic on the frontline of human health care, we’ve gained some new tools and technologies that help us do our jobs. But what remains the same is the number of options for treating patients who are severely bleeding from trauma.
B.C. student’s veterinary career choice flowed from salmon farming experience
When Matthew Wilson’s father took him kayaking along the coast of British Columbia, that holiday adventure ignited a new interest in his life — a fascination with the ocean and its unique ecology and biology.
‘Bully breeds’ bans don’t address lack of training and owner awareness
Banning of dog breeds brings up important questions: are dog breeds causing the problem? Or is the problem caused by owners who don’t properly train their animals — or don’t train them at all?
Canada’s pork industry renews financial investment in USask swine welfare chair
A group of Canadian pork industry partners have committed more than $1 million over five years to extend the critical role of a research chair in swine welfare at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).
WCVM's first dean shaped college's future
When the University of Saskatchewan's (USask) Board of Governors began searching for the first dean of Western Canada's veterinary college in 1963, their list of criteria was long.
Canada’s first veterinary social work program celebrates 10 years at the WCVM
A decade ago, Erin Wasson was completing a Master of Social Work degree program at the University of Regina (U of R) when two of her mentors approached her with the idea of establishing a veterinary social work program at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM).
MRI and LINAC installation project begins March 2025
While the WCVM Veterinary Medical Centre (VMC) has been planning a construction project that will significantly enhance its technological resources, the hospital's leadership team has secured an alternative provider for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) diagnostic services.
‘Veterinary medicine chose me as much as I chose it’
Enzzo Cepeda is no stranger to change. At the age of 14, he and his family moved from the largest city in South America — São Paulo, Brazil — to Winnipeg, Man., where the population and the climate were radically different from anything Cepeda had ever experienced before.
New veterinary program aims to support Canadian swine industry shortages
Nearly a decade ago, Dr. John Harding (DVM) noticed an alarming trend across Canada. As the country’s swine veterinarians grew older and reached retirement age, the number of young veterinarians interested in taking their place in the swine industry was dwindling.
From savannah cats to coral growth: diverse experiences prepare B.C. student for vet school
When the BC SPCA gave shelter to a group of savannah cats a few years ago, Ashley Sum Yin U was among the people who pitched in to help the animals.
Designated WCVM seats aim to enrich veterinary profession
As demand for animal health care in rural areas and underserved communities grows, the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) is leading efforts to address these needs through innovative admissions strategies.
Unlocking the ‘genetic magic’ of beef cattle
The next phase of a University of Saskatchewan (USask) research initiative aims to sequence the entire genome of beef cattle for the selection of optimum physical and behavioural traits and create a Canadian genetic database — two ambitious goals that will have a significant impact on the country’s beef cattle industry.
2024 Agribition serves as ideal training site for WCVM veterinary students
Two Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) veterinary students are preparing for a busy week filled with hands-on experiences and animal health awareness during the 2024 Canadian Western Agribition.
Giving back in life and death
USask graduate and veterinary toxicologist Dr. Barry Blakley (BSc’70, Sc’71, DVM’75, MSc’77, PhD) made a big impact in his profession and in the classroom. After passing away in March from pancreatic cancer, his legacy continues through ocular donations and student scholarships.
Delivering through the nose: USask team tests easier way to give lifesaving drug to working dogs
Veterinary researchers at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) are working on a safer and easier option for administering a drug that reverses the effects of xylazine in police dogs and other canine working animals that accidentally ingest or inhale this potent sedative.
Volunteering helped Saskatchewan student see variety in veterinary profession
Boden Marley has his mom to thank for helping him to realize his dream of getting accepted into the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM).
Vet student’s career interests stitch together animal and human health
Jen Svilik’s interest in human medicine led her to the Honours Bachelor of Health Sciences degree program at the University of Ottawa, but as she went on to pursue public health studies in France, her viewpoint expanded to encompass human health as well as the well-being of animals.
USask scientists evaluate timing for vaccinating sheep against deadly bacterial disease
In a new study targeting a deadly disease in lambs, scientists at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) are evaluating various vaccine protocols and their antibody concentrations to help sheep producers make better-informed decisions about disease prevention.
Friends of VIDO receives $1 million from celebrated Saskatoon philanthropist
A generous donation of $1 million from Ellen Remai, through the Frank and Ellen Remai Foundation, will support the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), a world-class research facility at the University of Saskatchewan (USask), with an aim to stop emerging infectious diseases and future pandemics.
WCVM alumnus honours parents’ legacy of sacrifice with new scholarship
A recent graduate of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) has established a new veterinary scholarship that pays tribute to her parents’ selflessness in immigrating with their family to Canada.
Northern exposure to animals guided Yukon student to vet profession
Growing up in Canada’s North meant that a large part of Claire Campbell’s childhood was spent outdoors, and her memories read like a page out of a travel brochure.
Tissue explants offer promising alternative for swine influenza research
Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) are exploring an innovative approach to swine influenza research that uses tissue explants as an alternative to conducting live animal trials.
Going batty: debunking myths and uncovering facts about one of Halloween’s spookiest critters
They’re quiet hunters, they’re the inspiration for one of the world’s most popular superheroes and they’re all over Halloween decorations – but how much do we really know about bats?
Veterinary pursuit: B.C. student has what it takes to achieve dream profession
Growing up in England, Christopher Keane had often considered a veterinary career. But that idea was shot down when he was told as a teenager that he didn’t have the capability to become a veterinarian.
‘Technologist of the Year’ award goes to a team player in animal health care
As manager of health services in a busy veterinary teaching hospital, Lindsey Fenez is used to covering a lot of ground during her workdays at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM).
Access to veterinary care critical to health of animals and people
Snarling, yelping and teeth gnashing was all I heard on one picturesque afternoon at my home First Nation in northern B.C. I was 13 years old, and my five-year-old sister and I were playing outside of my Nana’s house when Grizzly, our beloved family dog, was attacked by a pack of roaming dogs.
Professional pivot leads veterinary student to new challenges
To Arisia Swystun of Saskatoon, Sask., the sights and sounds and smells of a busy emergency veterinary hospital are as familiar as the back of her own hand.
USask veterinary student earns North American bovine health award
Jackson Goudy, a fourth-year veterinary student at the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM), received a top scholarship from the American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP) for his outstanding efforts in building a future in bovine veterinary medicine.
Veterinary students from 'then and now' compare notes during panel discussion
What was it like to be a veterinary student in the 1960s compared to students today at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM)?
Twin sisters share mutual passion for animals and veterinary medicine
Since classes began at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) in mid-August, staff and students may have wondered if they’re seeing double when they pass by first-year veterinary students Kaylee and Madisyn Fulcher in the hallway.
USask beef cattle ethologist receives bovine welfare award
Dr. Diego Moya (DVM, PhD), a beef cattle ethologist at the University of Saskatchewan (USask), has received the 2024 Metacam Bovine Welfare Award for his exceptional work in advancing the scientific understanding of bovine welfare and implementing improvements in the beef cattle sector.
Breathing new life: harnessing hypoxia to heal spinal cord injuries
University of Saskatchewan scientists are studying how therapeutic acute intermittent hypoxia (tAIH) works to promote spinal cord plasticity after an injury and identifying molecules and pathways activated by tAIH.
USask’s VIDO awarded NIH contract to develop critical models for global research
The University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) has been awarded a major new research contract in the global fight against infectious diseases.
USask PhD student takes animal pathogen research international with journey to Scotland
In a research journey that has taken her all the way to Europe, a University of Saskatchewan (USask) doctoral student is investigating the functions and effects of different infectious diseases in animals – and how these could potentially be combatted with vaccines.
Dr. Cheryl Waldner receives 2024 Canadian Beef Industry Award for Outstanding Research and Innovation
A University of Saskatchewan (USask) leader in beef cattle health and welfare has been awarded the 2024 Canadian Beef Industry Award for Outstanding Research and Innovation.
USask co-leads of first-ever nationwide One Health training program
Six universities across Canada have partnered to develop a cutting edge One Health training, mentorship and education program.
Personal ties lead scientists to bacterial research collaboration
An antimicrobial resistance research project initiated through a collaboration between British Columbia’s veterinary diagnostic laboratory and the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) all began with a personal connection.
USask scientists study link between Brucella infection and poor semen quality in rams
A University of Saskatchewan (USask) research team has confirmed that the presence of bacteria — primarily Brucella ovis — is the culprit behind poor semen quality found in male sheep (rams).
‘There’s no other place for me to be’: neuroscientist joins veterinary college at USask
From a young age, Dr. Olamide Adebiyi (DVM, PhD) has loved animals and teaching — two interests that eventually led to her career in veterinary medicine and academia.
Workshops make equine anatomy come alive
Tired of memorizing the intricacies of equine anatomy? Put that textbook aside — Dr. Madison Ricard (DVM, PhD) offers an entertaining way to help make learning about horses’ limbs, organs and systems much more memorable for people of all ages.
Yas Ranjbar: 'It's creating an understanding and respect'
As a student at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM), Yas Ranjbar knows how important diversity and inclusion is to the strength of a community.
NSERC awards more than $700,000 to WCVM research projects
University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers based at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) received over $700,000 in research funding through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Council of Canada (NSERC) Discovery Grants program.
Award-winning professor enjoys helping students achieve ‘aha moments’ in learning
For Dr. Tasha Epp (DVM, PhD), the rewards of teaching all aspects of epidemiology and zoonotic disease to undergraduate veterinary students and graduate students at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) are twofold.
New veterinarian’s passion for horses leads to WCVM equine internship
After years of “living and breathing horses,” Laura Callaghan is savouring her new role as an equine field service intern at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM).
USask researchers exploring pig possibilities for organ transplantation
Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) are turning science fiction into science fact by exploring xenotransplantation – the transplantation of organs from one species to another.
WCVM researchers among USask's "high-risk, high-reward" funding recipients
Two Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) researchers are among seven University of Saskatchewan (USask) members who have received a total of $1.7 million for innovative new research projects.
USask veterinary medallist envisions career in medical imaging
Dr. Maya Kliewer (DVM) of Saskatoon is this year’s recipient of the Faculty Gold Medal, the Western College of Veterinary Medicine’s (WCVM) highest honour for a graduating veterinary student.
USask scientist receives coveted federal funding for fruit fly metabolism research
Tiny fruit flies are helping Dr. Adelaine Leung (PhD) learn more about how a molecule found in flies as well as people could eventually lead to better, sex-specific approaches for preventing and treating obesity in humans.
To catch a cat killer
Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a life-threatening disease with an increased incidence in cats that have spent time in humane shelters or other multi-cat environments.
USask researchers identify promising protein candidate for metabolic disease treatment
A University of Saskatchewan (USask) research team’s discovery of the additional health benefits of an appetite-suppressing protein has doubled the potential for scientists to find new avenues for treating obesity and metabolic disorders in animals and people.
Health science researchers to receive Governor General’s Gold Medals at USask
Dr. Scott Dos Santos (PhD), whose health-focused doctoral studies were based at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM), is one of two University of Saskatchewan (USask) graduate students to receive a Governor General’s Gold Medal — Canada’s most prestigious academic honour.
USask team’s aerosol vaccine protects poultry from fatal bacterial disease
A University of Saskatchewan (USask) research team has developed an aerosol vaccine that is proving effective in protecting young broiler chicks against necrotic enteritis, a deadly disease in poultry and a One Health issue affecting both animals and humans.
PetSmart Charities of Canada invests in USask program addressing access to veterinary care
Over the next four years, the Northern Engagement and Community Outreach (NECO) program at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) will receive $860,000 from PetSmart Charities of Canada in support of efforts addressing access to veterinary care in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, British Columbia and Canada’s northern territories.
‘Chance favoured a distractible mind’: USask professor’s curiosity leads to career award
French chemist, pharmacist and microbiologist Louis Pasteur once said, “Chance favours the prepared mind only” when describing discovery through research.
WCVM researchers excel at USask Life and Health Sciences Research Expo
Members of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine’s (WCVM)’s research community excelled at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) 2024 Life and Health Sciences Research Expo on May 2.
Veterinary students assist in injured calf’s recovery
During a calving rotation at the Livestock and Forage Centre of Excellence (LFCE) this spring, a team of senior veterinary students from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) gained hands-on experience assisting a young calf with a fractured limb.
WCVM researcher earns award for graduate student mentorship
A cancer researcher and faculty member at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) has received a University of Saskatchewan (USask) award for his exceptional efforts in student mentorship.
‘A golden opportunity’: USask collaboration spans global borders
When University of Saskatchewan (USask) veterinary microbiologist Dr. Joe Rubin (DVM, PhD) and graduate student Dr. Roshan Madalagama (BVSc, PhD) first connected, they never knew that their working relationship would eventually span over 10 years and two continents.
Three WCVM faculty members among USask distinguished professors
The honorary title of distinguished professor recognizes exceptional achievements in research, scholarly, and artistic work.
Study’s insights may help expedite Addison’s disease diagnosis
Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) have identified some unique characteristics that most dogs show when they’re critically ill due to Addison’s disease — insights that may help veterinarians identify severe cases more quickly.
USask scientists explore new ways to protect bees from wily disease
If you haven’t caught up with the latest buzz, a bacterial illness called European foulbrood disease (EFB) is having a devastating impact on honey bee populations across North America.
USask researchers use foxes to solve health mystery in Northern communities
A combination of ecological and biological methods in studying wildlife helped University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers track a parasite dangerous to humans. As USask spotlights World Health Day on April 7, we take a closer look at this One Health Signature Area of Research project.
WCVM vet student and faculty member part of national honours
In a celebration of outstanding achievement and dedication to the field of veterinary medicine, a University of Saskatchewan (USask) veterinary student and a faculty member of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) were among the recipients of awards recently presented by the Students of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (SCVMA).
Banned rodenticide still endangers pets’ lives
It’s been a year since Saskatchewan banned the use of strychnine to control rodents, but a University of Saskatchewan (USask) veterinary toxicologist is warning that the highly toxic poison continues to threaten the lives of animals in the province.
WCVM graduate research celebration attracts record number of entrants
The 2024 Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) Graduate Student Research Poster Day on April 3 attracted 52 entrants — a record number for the college's annual celebration of graduate research.
Ask the Alumni Expert: Dr. Karen Machin (MSc’97, PhD’02)
For National Puppy Day, veterinarian Dr. Karen Machin—an expert in animal behaviour and a founder of New Hope Dog Rescue—shares her tips on puppy socialization and how to choose the right dog for you.
USask veterinarian earns top award for bovine work in Western Canada
Dr. Nathan Erickson (DVM) of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) has received the 2024 Veterinarian of the Year Award from the Western Canadian Association of Bovine Practitioners (WCABP) and Boehringer Ingelheim Canada.
USask mourns the passing of Dr. Leslie Dubé
The Saskatoon philanthropist, who died on March 13, 2024, at the age of 91, was bestowed with an honorary degree in 2007 for his many contributions to the University of Saskatchewan and to organizations across the province.
Making a difference for patients and families
USask alumni Tannis Nicholson (BusAdm’06) and Tyler Moss (BusAdm’08, CEBAC’11) are organizing a second memorial golf tournament to support the Comfort Care Fund at the Hospice at Glengarda
USask vet team’s herculean efforts save mare’s life
May 15, 2023, began as a day of celebration for Mikhaela Thrasher when her five-year-old purebred Clydesdale mare, Nya, gave birth to Hercules — a healthy, strapping colt that weighed a hefty 76 kilograms (168 pounds).
Networking for success: the academic advantage of connectivity
The first time a professor/friend at Sydney University introduced me to the world of extracellular vesicles over coffee, I was captivated by these small, bubble-like structures that carry crucial materials and aid various body processes.
WCVM faculty awarded CIHR research funding
Through its latest round of funding, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research is investing $4,862,701 in 13 projects led by University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers and research teams — including scientists who are part of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) faculty.
Personality traits play key role in invertebrate research
Scientists are recognizing the importance of considering personality in research — even when studying invertebrates.
USask veterinary scientists bite into evasive equine disease
Pain in the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) — the two joints that connect the lower jaw to the skull — is a common human health issue with up to 60 per cent of adults experiencing symptoms of TMJ disease at some point in their lives.
USask veterinarian earns top research prize
Dr. Nathalie Reisbig’s research work on an often-overlooked part of the equine anatomy earned the Western College of Veterinary Medicine veterinarian a top prize of $10,000 at the Calgary International Equine Symposium in September 2023.
K+S Potash Canada invests in Saskatchewan youth through USask SCI-FI Camps
A generous gift of $150,000 from K+S Potash Canada (KSPC) will allow SCI-FI Science Camps to continue to offer free programming to Saskatchewan youth interested in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
Probiotics for pregnancy: does the uterine microbiome influence a cow’s fertility?
Since the community of microorganisms (or microbiome) living in your gut can influence digestion and overall health, eating yogurt or taking probiotics can improve your gut function. But what about the microbiome in the uterus: could the bacterial composition inside the womb influence pregnancy rates?
USask scientists test agent for controlling tiny mite that's a big issue for honey bees
Canadian beekeepers lost a third of their bee hives during the 2022-23 winter due to a “perfect storm” of factors that killed off millions of honey bees across the country.