The series consists of reports, test results and related records created by the provincial veterinary laboratory from 1956-2011. The lab was operated by various branches of the Ministry and Agriculture over the years, including the Animal Health Branch, Animal Industry Branch and Animal Health Centre. Test results are used to monitor the prevalence and incidence of animal disease in the province and relate to a wide variety of animal species from livestock to pets to exotic or zoo animals.
Animal test specimens are sent to the Veterinary Laboratory from livestock producers, farmers, feed representatives, companion animal owners, veterinarians, animal shelters, wildlife centres, universities and other government agencies for disease analysis. The lab's examination generally includes a post mortem examination of the animal, and selection of tissues for further study and analysis. Tests may include toxicology, virology, histopathology or bacteriology.
The resulting reports are the end product of the Animal Health Centre's diagnostic investigation of the testing completed on the specimens. The format of the reports evolved over the years. Records from 1956-1985 are bound ledger books summarizing the results of the specimen submission. Later records include specimen reports, case reports and test results. These documents summarize which pathological tests were conducted by the veterinarians at the Centre.
The reports may contain information such as the name of submitter, owner of the animal, specimen(s) being tested, species, breed, age, sex, feed type, vaccinations and sometimes a diagnosis. Some reports also contain a summary of the animal’s history and symptoms. Lab results are often attached to the reports. Results and final comments may include recommendations for disease treatment, prevention and control.
The following ministries were responsible for the creation of these records:
Dept. of Agriculture (1956-1976)
Ministry of Agriculture (1976-1980)
Ministry of Agriculture and Food (1980-1986)
Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (1986/1991)
Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1991-1998)
Ministry of Agriculture and Food (1998-2000)
Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries (2000-2005)
Ministry of Agriculture and Lands (2005-2010)
These records are covered by 61010-10 in the Ministry of Agriculture ORCS (schedule 121300).
British Columbia. Ministry of Agriculture and Lands