The Manitoba government has appointed a new three-person task force to evaluate the province's rural veterinary services.

The process will involve consulting with stakeholders and providing recommendations to government on how to enhance services for livestock and pet owners.

"Manitoba's rural veterinarians provide a broad range of services and care for animals throughout the province," said Manitoba Agriculture, Food, and Rural Development Minister Ron Kostyshyn.  "Animal health and biosecurity are priorities shared by vets and our government, so we want to ensure appropriate services and infrastructure are available.  We want to hear the priorities of stakeholders and then develop a comprehensive plan for veterinary services for the future."

Dr. Paul Schneider, Bertha Russell-Langan and Merv Starzyk have been appointed to the task force. Over the next six months the task force will hold a series of focus groups with producer associations, members of the veterinary community, the Association of Manitoba Municipalities and other stakeholders.

"We in the task force look forward to the opportunity to meet with many Manitobans interested in veterinary services in rural Manitoba, to discuss where we are today and determine the opportunities to maintain the best services possible," said Dr. Paul Schneider, a veterinarian from St-Pierre-Jolys.  "The services required by farms and companion animals are continually evolving and we need to maintain our focus on those needs.  We must also ensure rural Manitoba can continue to attract and keep the dedicated professionals who are key in providing those services."

There are currently 145 veterinarians practicing in rural Manitoba, providing care and services for livestock and pets.

Manitoba currently has a scholarship program for veterinary students who choose to practice in a rural area for two years after graduation.  Since it was established in 2003, more than 45 students have participated, resulting in over 76 years of service returned to rural communities.

The task force report and recommendations are expected in January of 2016.

Manitoba's veterinary service was last reviewed in 2007.