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NUNAVUT - Olivier Dubeau and his family have what he describes as “a small zoo at home,” which includes one dog, two cats, two hamsters, two rats and a gecko.

Former Iqaluit resident Oliver Dubeau is now working as a veterinarian in Kentville, N.S. - photo courtesy of Mya Dubeau

With a obvious passion for animals, it's clear how this former Iqaluit resident got into a career in veterinary medicine.

“If you don't like pets you won't enjoy your work,” Dubeau said.

He was born in 1978 and lived in the territory's capital until 2000. Many of his cousins still live in the city.

After graduating from Inuksuk High School, Dubeau went to McGill University in Montreal and studied biochemistry.

He returned north where he met his wife.

After contemplating a career in the armed forces, Dubeau said becoming a veterinarian seemed to be the right fit.

“I always liked medicine and helping people,” he said.

Before going to vet school he had two kids, Marcel, 5, and Dasani, two-and-a-half.

Now with a doctorate in veterinary medicine from the Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Dubeau is ready to set up a practice.

Getting accepted to college was the hard part, but Dubeau said he did not have a hard time finding a job. He has accepted a position in Kentville, N.S.

Dubeau said he considered opening up a clinic for the territory, which has no veterinarian. Though he has fond memories of Iqaluit, including playing years of hockey and working at the Racquet Club, he decided the costs were too high.

“It's hard to set up a business and it's quite expensive.”

For now, his practice will be hands-on but there are always options to work with the government on regulations with departments like the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

He said he would like to specialize in more exotic animals like ferrets.

With a new job, house and two kids, Dubeau said his wife now wants to get a horse. It doesn't seem like something the new veterinarian couldn't handle.

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