Dr. Joey Tang  steps into new role to help animals  

For Dr. Joey Tang, veterinary medicine has always been about more than treating animals – it’s about giving them a second chance. Now, as Medical Director with the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, he’s helping ensure more animals receive the care they need to thrive. 

In this role, Dr. Tang will help lead and support veterinary care across the organization, playing a key part in advancing the Ontario SPCA’s priorities of ensuring the best possible support for the animals in our care, and inspiring healthy bonds between pets and people through accessible care, education and community collaboration. 

A journey shaped by curiosity and compassion 

For Dr. Tang, a career in veterinary medicine began with a moment of curiosity that never left him. Growing up with animals, he always had a natural love for them, but it was a single experience with his family dog that changed everything. 

When his dog suddenly became sick, his family rushed her to the veterinarian. Within minutes, the vet diagnosed the issue and provided treatment that had her feeling better within days. 

“I remember thinking, how did he know? My dog couldn’t talk, and we didn’t know what was wrong,” says Dr. Tang. “It felt almost magical.” 

That moment sparked a lifelong interest in veterinary medicine. He went on to study at the Ontario Veterinary College, graduating in 2019, and spent five years in general practice before discovering a new path in shelter medicine. 

Finding purpose in shelter medicine 

Dr. Tang joined the Ontario SPCA in April 2024, bringing with him a strong clinical background and a desire to make a broader impact. 

It didn’t take long for him to feel connected to the organization’s work. 

“I fell in love with the stories,” he says. “Seeing an animal come in sick, scared, or neglected, and then watching them recover, grow, and find a loving home – that’s what makes this work so meaningful.” 

He also highlights the importance of accessible veterinary care, something the Ontario SPCA continues to expand through its community clinics. 

“In general practice, I often heard, ‘I can’t afford this,’” he says. “Being able to offer accessible services and give more animals access to care – that really resonates with me.” 

A role rooted in collaboration and impact 

As Medical Director, Dr. Tang’s days are dynamic and multifaceted, ranging from performing surgeries and supporting clinical teams to consulting complex cases and helping guide organization-wide medical protocols. 

At the core of his role is collaboration. Working closely with registered veterinary technicians, animal care attendants, veterinarians, and leadership, he helps ensure animals across the province receive high-quality, compassionate care. 

“They’re the ones on the ground, seeing these cases every day,” he says. “I want to help support them and make sure their voices are heard when it comes to improving animal care.” 

Every animal adopted through the Ontario SPCA has a team behind them ensuring they are healthy, supported, and ready for their next chapter. From intake assessments and diagnostics to treatment plans and recovery, veterinary care plays a critical role in each step of that journey. 

“Our goal is to make sure each animal is stable, comfortable, and ready to thrive in a home,” says Dr. Tang. “There’s a lot of care and collaboration that happens behind the scenes to make that possible.” 

A story that stayed with him 

One case that continues to stay with Dr. Tang is a young cat named Charlie, who was surrendered by her family for euthanasia after becoming severely ill. 

Further assessment led to a diagnosis of Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), a condition that now has emerging treatment options. 

With quick thinking and a dedicated care plan, Charlie began treatment and within days, her condition dramatically improved. 

“She went from being near death to acting like a normal, happy two-year-old cat,” he says. 

After completing treatment, Charlie made a full recovery – an outcome that reflects the impact of compassionate, team-based care. 

Life beyond the clinic 

Outside of work, Dr. Tang’s life is just as full. He shares his home with two dogs and two cats, all adopted or rescued, and is currently preparing for an exciting new chapter: welcoming his first child this spring! 

When he’s not working, you can find him spending time with his family, walking his dogs, or enjoying hands-on hobbies like arts and crafts. 

A shared commitment to animals 

For Dr. Tang, being part of the Ontario SPCA means being part of something bigger.  

“Everyone here is working toward the same goal: improving the lives of animals and creating a better future for them,” he says. “That shared commitment is what makes this work so meaningful.” 

We’re proud to have Dr. Joey Tang in this role and look forward to the continued impact he will make for animals and communities across Ontario.  

Interested in joining the Ontario SPCA team? Visit our career page to learn more about employment opportunities.