THUNDER BAY – Lakehead University has started construction on a new animal education facility to support its Collaborative Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program, developed in partnership with the University of Guelph.
The $12.6-million project, awarded to Thunder Bay-based contractor Tom Jones Corporation, got underway in August and is expected to be completed in summer 2026.
Named Gakina Awesiinyag — Anishinaabemowin for “All Animals (Place For)” — the facility is intended to help address the shortage of veterinarians in Northern Ontario, particularly in rural, remote and Indigenous communities.
An Indigenous-led ground blessing ceremony took place in June, marking what the university described as a milestone in the program’s development.
Designed by mcCallumSather, the building will include modern veterinary learning spaces, safe housing for large and small animals, storage for feed and bedding, and advanced mechanical systems to support both animal welfare and student learning.
Lakehead officials say future phases will involve renovations to its ATAC and CASES buildings, expanding clinical training areas, labs and student facilities.
“The launch of construction on this new facility marks a significant step forward for the Collaborative Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program,” said Trevor Jones, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. “Our government’s investment of $14.78-million provides support to build education facilities at Lakehead University and the University of Guelph to help more students from Northern Ontario launch rewarding careers in veterinary medicine, safeguarding animal health across the province and strengthening food security.”
The Ontario government has pledged up to $14.78 million to the veterinary program, including $4.5 million earmarked for the new facility.
