County pushing for new veterinary college at FIU

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY – Miami-Dade County can look forward to becoming home to the second college of veterinary medicine in Florida. 

The Miami-Dade County Commission on Nov. 3 approved legislation sponsored by Commissioner Jose “Pepe” Diaz to partner with Florida International University to help create a veterinary college at the school.

The University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine in Gainesville is currently the only veterinary college in the state university system.

“Starting a veterinary college at FIU would fill an important need in this community, especially considering our large pet population,” Commissioner Diaz said.

The resolution calls for the Mayor’s office to coordinate with FIU, the Florida Board of Governors and the Florida Legislature on efforts to establish the veterinary college.

Commissioner Diaz has been a strong pets advocate. Earlier this year, he sponsored legislation to explore a partnership with UF’s College of Veterinary Medicine to expand spay and neuter services in Miami-Dade County.