An anesthetized cat is placed in the cradle that's part of the linear accelerator at the WCVM Veterinary Medical Centre.
Photo: Christina Weese.

VMC's radiation oncology services remain on hold

The WCVM Veterinary Medical Centre's linear accelerator, which is more than a decade old, has been shut down.

In June 2022, the VMC had to shut down its linear accelerator because of substantial mechanical issues. The VMC clinical team looks forward to the new linear accelerator being in place as the decision around purchasing a new unit is complete and the contracts have been signed. 

Once the new linear accelerator is in place, the VMC’s veterinary oncology team can resume offering a full range of radiation therapies — including optimized image-guided radiotherapy and high-speed radiation treatment.

The VMC will keep referring veterinarians posted on timelines regarding installation of the hospital's new linear accelerator.