Rendering of the new space.

Conestoga College is set to launch a new two-year Veterinary Technician diploma program at its Kitchener-Doon campus in the fall of 2025. This program, part of a broader initiative to expand animal care education, will take place in a fully renovated space to provide students with hands-on experience using realistic animal models and cutting-edge technology.

In addition to the Veterinary Technician program, Conestoga will also offer one-year programs in Pet Grooming and Veterinary Assistant. These programs aim to address the growing need for skilled professionals in animal care, an industry facing workforce shortages.

A unique feature of the Veterinary Technician program is its humane, simulation-based approach to education. By using advanced models and life-like scenarios, students can practice essential veterinary skills in a controlled environment before working with live animals during clinical placements.

“Conestoga has been a leader in developing simulation and scenario-based learning, particularly in its health programs. Our Veterinary Technician program will utilize these same techniques to teach animal-based scenarios using realistic veterinary models,” says Andrea Steele, chair of Animal Care at Conestoga.

The program’s new space in the former electrical trades building will be equipped with clinical skills rooms, a diagnostic lab, two X-ray suites, a pet grooming bathing area, and a spacious student lounge. The $20.2 million renovation, which began in May 2024, also includes a sustainable mechanical room with electrified air-source heat pumps.

The program has been designed in consultation with experts from grooming businesses, animal hospitals, the Ontario Association of Veterinary Technicians, and the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph. Students will benefit from three work placements throughout the program, providing valuable real-world experience. Once the program is accredited, graduates will be eligible to take the Veterinary Technician National Examination.