Fort St. John vet clinic defies CVBC restrictions, continues services

FORT. ST. JOHN, B.C. – A veterinary clinic in Fort St. John is continuing to operate despite being restricted by the College of Veterinarians of British Columbia (CVBC) since April 22nd. 

According to the CVBC, Gentle Pet Clinic on 100th Avenue is not allowed to offer any veterinary services at this time, only being allowed to sell over-the-counter non-drug products and provide access to medical records to previous patients. 

Despite these limitations, Facebook posts and comments from Fort St. John residents have suggested the clinic continues to offer procedures and services outside those allowed by the CVBC. 

Energeticcity called the clinic multiple times throughout May 30th, but veterinarian Dr. Harpreet Dhaliwal was unavailable for comment. 

Multiple animals were heard in the call’s background, and the person who answered the phone confirmed the animals were not in for boarding services. 

She also stated she was not currently booking procedures but confirmed that at least one of the animals in the background was in for a spay procedure. 

The clinic has had problems with the CVBC in the past and has had conflicting reviews since 2023. 

When contacted about the situation, the CVBC only offered a written statement. 

“Effective April 22, 2024, the accreditation of Gentle Pet Clinic in Fort St. John is designated “limited”. Veterinary services may not be provided at the facility,” the statement said. 

“Due to the CVBC’s statutory obligation to protect personal and confidential information, we are unable to provide information about any specific matter beyond what is published on the CVBC’s website.”

The CVBC encourages any individuals concerned about Gentle Pet or any other veterinary service to connect with them by phone at 604-929-7090 or email complaints@cvbc.ca.