Media Releases

Québec Veterinarian Recognized for Championing Independent Practice and Public Education

June 26, 2025

Victoria, B.C. – Dr. Lucie Hénault received the 2025 Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) Industry Award during the Annual CVMA Awards Gala on June 25, in recognition of her visionary leadership, commitment to veterinary independence, and contributions to public education and wellness in the profession.

A practicing veterinarian for 25 years, Dr. Hénault is the President and Co-Founder of Flair & cie, a collective of eight independently owned veterinary clinics in the Greater Montreal region. All are proudly Québec-owned and operated by nine veterinarians and one animal health technician.

Through Flair & cie, Dr. Hénault has pioneered a new model of veterinary entrepreneurship that supports collaborative decision-making, mentorship, and shared ownership – offering an alternative to the growing trend of corporate consolidation. Her leadership has empowered associates to grow into confident owner-managers while preserving Québec’s professional independence.

“Dr. Hénault is a visionary whose values are rooted in availability, education, and clear communication,” says Dr. Jean-Sébastien Boileau, veterinary cardiologist and long-time collaborator. “Her leadership and mentorship are reshaping veterinary practice from the inside out.”

In 2021, she launched flairetcie.com, a French-language web magazine offering science-based, veterinary-authored content to pet owners and professionals. With over 600 articles, it serves as a hub for animal health education and reaches more than 24,000 subscribers monthly. Her media presence includes regular TV and radio appearances, including on TVA’s Animania, Radio-Canada’s On va se le dire, and QUB Radio.

Dr. Hénault is also the author of La Véto cuistot , a cookbook featuring family-friendly recipes safe for dogs published in 2024, and Je protège mon chien, a guide to canine health released in 2025. She frequently contributes to veterinary publications, including Le Rapporteur, the journal of the Association des médecins vétérinaires du Québec (AMVQ).

Her professional engagement includes service with the AMVQ, Université de Montréal’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, and the Ordre des médecins vétérinaires du Québec. She is also a sought-after speaker on topics such as wellness, veterinary communication, and women in leadership.

Within Flair & cie, Dr. Hénault created a suite of in-house development programs, including Heures du Sens, Parcours Entrepreneure et Leadership, Ateliers Bien-Flair, and a five-module training series for veterinary receptionists. Her 3 A’s of Professionalism – Aptitude, Attitude, and Appearance – reflect her commitment to accessible, high-standard care rooted in respect and clarity.

“Dr. Hénault has helped redefine what it means to be a veterinary entrepreneur,” says Dr. Stéphanie Surveyer, one of her co-owners. “She gives others the confidence to lead while creating healthy workplaces that support both people and animals.”

The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association Industry Award recognizes a CVMA member for their contribution to the advancement of veterinary medicine through industry, innovation, and leadership.

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The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) is the national and international voice for Canada’s veterinarians, providing leadership and advocacy for veterinary medicine. Each year, the CVMA proudly recognizes individuals and groups for their outstanding contribution to veterinary medicine. Visit canadianveterinarians.net to learn more about the CVMA.

Contact:      
Ashley Dupont
Communications Officer
Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA)
613-236-1162 ext. 125
adupont@cvma-acmv.org