OVC Professor Elected Specialty Chair in Cardiology

Dr. Sonja Fonfara, a professor in the Department of Clinical Studies at the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC), has been elected as the Chair of the Cardiology Specialty Group by the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine – Companion Animals (ECVIM-CA).  

Fonfara is OVC’s Research Chair in Feline Health and a board-certified specialist in companion animal cardiology with extensive clinical, teaching and research experience. Her research program examines a range of factors impacting cardiac health in a wide variety of species – from cats to sea turtles.  

Like the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, the European equivalent (ECVIM-CA) is an organization of veterinary specialists focused on advancing companion animal internal medicine, cardiology and oncology. Their aim is to ensure continuous growth in research, innovation and best practices across these specialized fields.  

In 2010, Fonfara became ECVIM-CA board certified in cardiology. She continued to be actively involved as a member of the examination committee for ECVIM board certification from 2012 to 2024.  

As the ECVIM Chair of the Cardiology Specialty Group, Fonfara will contribute to advancing the field of veterinary cardiology and ensuring its quality. She looks forward to enhancing the training of veterinarians specializing in veterinary cardiology, as well as supporting the current and next generation of veterinary cardiologists. In doing so, Fonfara will help to ensure excellent care and support is provided to pets and their veterinarians. 

The OVC community congratulates Dr. Fonfara on her appointment!