This Veterinary Appreciation Day, Salmon Arm Dr. Taryn Cass received an extra special honour.
On June 18, Cass was recognized by North American pet insurance provider Trupanion as Western Canada’s 2026 Veterinary Professional of the Year.
The Uptown Animal Hospital owner and veterinarian was one of about 2,000 people nominated for the award, honoring a a veterinary professional “whose skill, compassion, and commitment help elevate the standard of care within their hospital and community.”
“I feel quite honoured…,” said Cass. “I view it as really a win for the team.”
Cass said her team nominated her for the award, while the winners were voted on by the public. According to Trupanion, more than 86,000 votes were received and “over 100,000 stories shared from communities eager to celebrate the veterinary heroes in their lives.”
Cass’ nomination story was submitted by Uptown Animal Hospital office manager Lindsey Harvie. In it, Harvie describes Cass as an “outstanding doctor and human” who “genuinely cares about making a difference with clients, patients and the community.”
“She excels at helping reduce stress for both clients and patients,” wrote Harvie. “She treats all companion animals as if they were a part of her own family.
“She has the biggest heart, and we do not think she is told enough how wonderful she is as a doctor — or as a person. She does not like when attention is on her, but we feel that, as such a special human, she deserves for everyone to hear how phenomenal she really is to us and the community.”
In her “winner’s statement” also shared by Trupanion, Cass notes being a veterinarian is her calling, one that “gives me the opportunity to form meaningful relationships with animals, their owners, and my colleagues and coworkers.
“I find immense personal and professional satisfaction in creating and sustaining these relationships, which is why I am still proud to be a veterinarian today.”
Cass opened the Uptown Animal Hospital at 51-2801 10th Ave. NE in 2020, to provide veterinary care for “companion animals.” She is currently one of three veterinarians working there, along with a team of about 20 including veterinary technicians, assistants and service representatives.
“I’m one person in my practice and for the community to vote really says a lot about my team and our ability to support our community and have our community support us back,” said Cass.
Trupanion established June 18 as Veterinary Appreciation Day “to celebrate and honor the invaluable contributions of veterinary professionals.”