OFA provides comments to Dr. Lorie Gold, President of the College of Veterinarians of Ontario regarding vets and malpractice insurance. Animals and animal-related agriculture are crucial to the economic stability of Ontario’s rural communities. OFA understands that veterinarians play a critical role in protecting the health of animals and people, promoting animal welfare, and maintaining a health and safe food supply. Due to the sensitive nature of the profession, being a veterinarian carries with it risks related to professional liability (malpractice). Professional negligence can cause serious repercussions and financial implications for the veterinarian, veterinary practice, and the client (farmer). Liability coverage protects against claims in the event of an error or negligent act performed by the veterinary professional. OFA understands that, while highly recommended, professional liability insurance for veterinarians in Ontario is not required. As a farm organization, OFA has a vested interest in the long-term establishment and success of veterinarians in our rural communities and OFA encourages the College of Veterinarians in Ontario to make professional liability insurance mandatory for livestock veterinarians, to ensure no serious implications are borne by the veterinarian, the veterinary practice, and the client in the even of professional negligence.