A Hartland based company is taking over veterinary services for New Brunswick farmers. Carleton AgriSolutions will manage the public veterinary program starting April 1, 2027. This move follows the provincial government decision to end the public service. You can read the original report on CTV News.

New Model for Farm Animal Care

If you own livestock in New Brunswick, you will soon rely on a private model for veterinary care. Carleton AgriSolutions will provide services for dairy and meat cattle, poultry, pigs, sheep, goats, bees, foxes, mink, meat rabbits, llamas, alpacas and horses. Peter Carpenter is the vice president of sales and marketing for Carleton AgriSolutions. He says the company wants to build a strong and sustainable service model that meets the needs of people and animals.

Securing the Veterinarians

The transition requires securing enough professionals to do the job. Currently, 17 veterinarians have signed memorandums of understanding with the company. Carpenter notes that professionals need to know the entire process before making a final commitment. He says the company announced its intentions early because waiting until February is unfair to the industry.

Government Support and Financials

The provincial government will still play a role. It will continue providing foreign animal disease lab services. The province is also directing 1.7 million dollars toward travel expenses for food and fur producer veterinary services. Additional funding will support professional development and recruitment for large animal veterinarians. Agriculture Minister Pat Finnigan says the change focuses on efficiency and responsiveness rather than just cost savings. The province originally planned to save 4 million dollars but will now save about 1.8 million dollars.

Industry Leaders Express Optimism

Agricultural leaders view this announcement as a positive step. Danielle Connell is the president of the Agricultural Alliance of New Brunswick. She says veterinary care will remain accessible and affordable for farms of all sizes under the new model. She adds that the company has a strong incentive to keep costs reasonable to maintain their business and keep animals healthy. Trevor Welch chairs the New Brunswick Cattle Producers Association. He says the last six months were discouraging but he is now optimistic. He trusts the company wants to make the new system work.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Carleton AgriSolutions take over the veterinary program?

The company takes over the program on April 1, 2027.

What animals will the new service cover?

The service covers dairy and meat cattle, poultry, pigs, sheep, goats, bees, foxes, mink, meat rabbits, llamas, alpacas and horses.

Will the government still provide any funding?

Yes. The provincial government will provide 1.7 million dollars for travel expenses and continue funding lab services and professional development.