Veterinarians in British Columbia are facing a crucial decision as they have until the end of the month to vote on a proposed increase in fees required to practice in the province. The College of Veterinarians of British Columbia is urging its members to vote on the fee hike in order to avoid insolvency by May 2026.
The proposed annual private practice registration fee is set to rise to $1,900 from the current $1,395, which has remained unchanged since 2011. The college has attempted three times before to push for fee increases in 2012, 2019, and 2023, all of which were rejected by the registrants.
According to a statement on the college’s website, deficits incurred in the 2023 and 2024 fiscal years have accumulated to nearly $1.2 million, prompting the need for financial stability through fee adjustments.
Voting commenced on July 28, and members have until Aug. 29 to submit their ballots online. The college warns that if it becomes insolvent in 2026, the regulation of veterinary medicine in British Columbia would be at risk unless the provincial government intervenes.