Private company to take over New Brunswick veterinary services next year

New Brunswick's provincial veterinary services are set to be taken over by private company Carleton AgriSolutions starting April 1, 2027. This change comes five months after budget cuts hit the services, which were a result of the province's $1.4-billion deficit. Hartland-based Carleton AgriSolutions, formerly known as NB Seed Grower Coop, has been a seed wholesaler that supplies feed and farm supplies.

Their vice-president of sales and marketing, Peter Carpenter, says the company will act as a facilitator by providing the necessary equipment and facilities for the provincial veterinarians to continue their duties. Despite the company having no experience in veterinary care, they aim to ensure a smooth transition for the industry.

The provincial government, in its latest budget announcement in March, decided to phase out veterinary and laboratory services over three years, saving $4 million annually. Current provincial field veterinarian supervisor, Lisa Freeze, says the majority of the province's veterinarians have agreed to stay on until the end of March 2027 as the transition process continues.

While some have left the province, the rest plan to remain in their positions until the end of March 2027. Agricultural Alliance of NB's president, Danielle Connell, acknowledges that maintaining government-funded services would have been ideal but the sector had to adapt to the reality of ongoing cuts. She believes Carleton AgriSolutions will keep prices reasonable to avoid negative consequences for their business. The province will contribute up to $1.2 million to support the transition process.