INUVIK - Visiting vet Dr. John Overell will make his last work trip to Inuvik next month, as the town will have its own vet come April.

Dr. John Overell of Dawson City, Yukon will be making his last trip to Inuvik on March 1. The town will soon have its own full-time vet, when Peter Krizan finishes his studies in April. - NNSL file photo

"I'm sad to be leaving, but Inuvik is lucky to have a full-time vet now," said Overell.

Peter Krizan is studying at the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph, and is in his final session before being certified.

He will be done his studies in April.

The last chance to see Overell in town will be on March 1.

"We're just starting to make appointments now," he said.

In an effort to raise awareness about his visits, Overell sends out vaccination notices to the community.

"I usually send them out two weeks before I get there, but I wanted to give more notice this time," he said.

Overell, who is based in Dawson City, Yukon, has made about four trips to Inuvik a year since 2002.

He began making the trip at the request of Linda Eccles, who was manager of the Inuvik SPCA at the time.

"She was the person who called me to come to Inuvik," he said.

Aurora College, Mackenzie Hotel, Arctic Chalet and Air North have also lent their support to the vet's visits over the years.

"I usually fly up during the winter months, but I have some equipment to bring back with me this time," said Overell.

He said heavier equipment and supplies need to be stored here in town. It's how he met Krizan almost six years ago.

"I met Peter on my second year visiting Inuvik," recalls Overell.

"He showed interest in becoming a vet."

Krizan worked with Overell as his assistant for the next few visits, before leaving for school.

"I told Peter about the Ontario Veterinary College in Guelph," said Overell.

"He applied and they took him in."

The program in Guelph currently requires four years of studies, which is a change from when Overell was a student.

"Back when I went, it was a five-year program," he said.

"Now, it's more learning crammed into one less year."

Overell said being a veterinarian is not an easy career, but added that Krizan should have the support of the community when he is ready to take appointments.

Overell said he is sad to say goodbye, but is confident Inuvik's animals will be in good hands.

"I'll miss my clients and my patients," he said.

"The people in Inuvik are amazing and have given me the best support."