Lakehead University has officially launched construction on its new animal education facility, Gakina Awesiinyag, designed to support the Collaborative Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program in partnership with the University of Guelph. This initiative aims to address the pressing shortage of veterinarians in Northern Ontario, particularly in rural, remote, and Indigenous communities.
Project Overview
The $12.6 million project has been awarded to Tom Jones Corporation, with construction beginning in August 2025 and completion expected in summer 2026. The facility’s name, Gakina Awesiinyag, translates to “All Animals (Place For)” in Anishinaabemowin, reflecting its inclusive vision and deep cultural respect. An Indigenous-led ground blessing ceremony took place in June 2025, symbolizing the collaborative spirit driving the project forward.
Construction and Design Features
Designed by mcCallumSather, the building emphasizes sustainability, operational efficiency, and animal comfort. It will provide:
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Modern learning spaces tailored to veterinary education
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Safe housing for large and small animals
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Storage for feed, bedding, and supplies
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Advanced mechanical systems to maintain optimal environments for animals and students alike
Lakehead University reports that he next stage of development will include renovations to Lakehead’s ATAC and CASES buildings to expand clinical training areas, anatomy and pathobiology labs, and student spaces.
Government and Community Support
The Ontario Government is investing up to $14.78 million in the program, with $4.5 million directed specifically toward Lakehead’s capital build. Provincial leaders, including Agriculture Minister Trevor Jones, emphasized the facility’s role in strengthening Ontario’s veterinary workforce and supporting the agri-food sector. Minister of Northern Economic Development and Growth, George Pirie, highlighted how the program will fuel economic resilience by training veterinarians who understand the unique challenges of the north.
Program Significance
The Collaborative Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program will serve as a “made-in-the-north” solution to the veterinarian shortage. Students will benefit from:
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Training in both Lakehead and Guelph facilities
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Hands-on experience with veterinarians working in northern and rural settings
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Specialized preparation for careers in remote and agricultural communities
The program’s first Northern Cohort will begin studies at the University of Guelph this September, before transitioning to Lakehead in 2027 when the new facility is operational.
Workforce and Trades Involved
The construction of Gakina Awesiinyag will require contributions from a wide range of trades and professionals, including:
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General contractors and project managers: Overseeing site preparation and build-out
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Structural steel workers: Erecting the steel-framed facility
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Mechanical engineers and HVAC specialists: Installing advanced systems for animal and student comfort
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Electrical contractors: Delivering power, lighting, and safety systems
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Plumbing and water systems specialists: Ensuring secure water delivery for animal care and facility operations
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Interior finishers and carpenters: Constructing learning spaces, labs, and animal housing areas
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Landscapers: Shaping the outdoor areas to support accessibility and sustainability
Looking Ahead
Lakehead’s new animal education facility is more than a construction project—it represents a transformative step for healthcare, education, and community growth in Northern Ontario. By expanding veterinary education and aligning it with local needs, the project will provide lasting benefits for pet owners, farmers, and the agri-food industry. Once complete, Gakina Awesiinyag will serve as a symbol of cultural respect, educational innovation, and regional progress.
