Eglinton Veterinary Facilities
About Us
Our Clinic's History
Our site near Yonge and Eglinton has housed a veterinary clinic since the 1930s and we are thrilled to be able to continue helping people and pets from North Toronto and beyond.
The history of Eglinton Veterinary Facilities began with a single veterinarian, Dr. Leroy McGillvray, who began practicing here in the mid-1930s. At that time Eglinton Veterinary was on the north edges of the City, and one of only three completely small animal clinics in Toronto. We continue to find ways to ‘pioneer’ veterinary care by adding unique aspects of medicine to our practice, such as our laparoscopic surgery program (we still have one of only a few of the on-site laparoscopes in the city), laser therapy and integrative care including acupuncture and herbal medicine.
Many of Eglinton Vet’s current and former veterinarians grew up in the neighbourhood, attended local schools and have moved back to the area to join our team. It is rare for veterinarians to remain at the same practice where they started after graduation, but Dr. Bob, Dr. Bev and Dr. Josh have all been with Eglinton Vet since graduation (see more information about all of our doctors here). The Clinic’s goal is to run a family veterinary practice true to our roots. We love to hear stories about many of our clients coming into the clinic as children with their parents or grandparents!
Our veterinary team works well together, and each has passions and skills to bring the table; together, our goal is to run a caring, professional, high-quality veterinary practice. We are proud of the fact that the clinic continues to be a neighbourhood veterinary practice where we get to know our clients, their pets, and their families.
I hope to make people realize how totally helpless animals are, how dependent on us, trusting as a child must that we will be kind and take care of their needs… [They] are an obligation put on us, a responsibility that we have no right to neglect, nor to violate by cruelty.
James Herriot (Scottish Veterinarian and writer 1916-1995)
Who, What, When, Where, Why?
Who?
Our veterinarians are all graduates of the Ontario Veterinary College with years of experience caring for dogs, cats, and other animals of all shapes and sizes. Our patients are cared for by a team of six veterinarians plus one locum veterinary surgeon who visits us specifically to do surgery (laparoscopic procedures). The doctors are supported by a compassionate team including our practice manager, customer service team, veterinary technicians, and animal care assistants. One of the key elements of our care is that we are pet owners just like our clients.
More information on our whole team can be found here.
What?
We are a full-service animal hospital for dogs and cats, offering a range of services described here on our website. We strongly advocate preventative medicine, good nutrition, and dental care to try to keep our patients healthy and prevent problems, but are also equipped to deal with medical issues and emergencies that may arise. We aim to care for each of our patients with thoughtfulness and compassion. Part of our commitment to our patients is supporting their families in making the right decisions for their beloved pets. One of the things that we believe sets Eglinton Vet apart is our personal connection with clients and the amount of time we spend communicating with owners whether their animal is in the hospital or at home.
When?
We try to be available to our clients when they need us. We are only a phone call away if there is a question, and we pride ourselves in this personal connection with our clients. We have appointment times from early in the morning (starting at 8 am on weekdays) until late into the evening four days a week (until 7:30 pm Monday to Thursday and 6 pm on Friday), as well as office hours on Saturday.
Where?
We are proud to live and work in North Toronto, close to the vibrant Yonge and Eglinton intersection of the city where we are accessible to clients using the subway so that we can be easily reached for some of our specialized offerings. Many of our veterinarians grew up in the neighbourhood and genuinely feel that it is a privilege to work at a veterinary clinic with over 80 years of history.
To find us, please see here.
Why?
We have a passion for working with animals and are proud to be part of a profession that helps people and their pets. We recognize that dogs and cats are cherished parts of the families that visit us.
The Canadian veterinary oath:
As a member of the veterinary medical profession, I solemnly swear that I will use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society.
I will strive to:
promote animal health and welfare,
prevent and relieve animal suffering,
protect the health of the public and the environment, and
Advanced comparative medical knowledge.
I will perform my professional duties conscientiously, with dignity, and in keeping with the principles of veterinary medical ethics.
I will strive continuously to improve my professional knowledge and competence and to maintain the highest professional and ethical standards for myself and the profession.
Canadian Veterinary Medical Association 2004 (revised 2018)
Giving Back
Our practice philosophy revolves around helping pets and people in our community, and we recognize the importance of giving back. Along with sponsorship of community groups/schools, some of the organizations that we have built a relationship with include:
OVC Pet Trust
OVC Pet Trust honours the relationship between pets, their people and veterinary care givers. They do this by raising funds and supporting learning, healthcare, and research at the Ontario Veterinary College.
OVC Pet Trust
OVC Pet Trust honours the relationship between pets, their people and veterinary care givers. They do this by raising funds and supporting learning, healthcare, and research at the Ontario Veterinary College.
Golden Rescue
The Canadian Golden Retriever Adoption Service Inc. is a volunteer-operated, not-for-profit charitable organization dedicated to rescuing and re-homing displaced Golden Retrievers, and educating pet owners.
Co-Op Programs and Student Volunteers
We are pleased to help students through official high-school co-op programs, volunteer programs, and college or university placements. This allows them to determine if animal care might be their passion.
