Dr. Mark Dilworth
He/Him
Dr. Mark Dilworth’s entire life is centred around animals and their welfare. As a Kahu to many cats and dogs over the years, including an array of clinic cats, he also appreciates the importance of, and the sacrifice that comes with, being a guardian to your animal.
Presently, Mark and his partner Dave have seven dogs and two cats, and the walls of their home are covered with photos of their previous dogs. They find special joy and fulfillment in taking on dogs with behaviour issues or perhaps health concerns that might be considered unadoptable or otherwise in need. Their most recent family member is Lynn, a cocker spaniel with neurological issues, whom they welcomed after a dear client of Mark’s passed away.
His love of animals was evident at an early age. As a high school student, Mark worked at the OSPCA. When he graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College, he returned to the OSPCA as a veterinarian when they opened the first head office in Newmarket. He also worked at a 24-hour veterinary hospital and an emergency.
In university, he helped open WildCare (a wildlife rehabilitation centre) and worked as the clinic coordinator/wildlife rehabilitator for many years. (His parents could regale you with many stories of wild animals living briefly in their home when they needed overnight care!)
Mark has also been privileged to receive other recognition for his work with animals. In 2014, the OVMA honored him with the OVMA Award of Merit for his work helping rescue and rehabilitate animals in need, partly based on nominations from his clients. In 2015, Mark was a finalist for the PetPlan Veterinarian of the Year based on his impact on veterinary medicine and commitment to providing an exceptional level of care to animals. Mark and his animal hospital have also been featured in various online publications and recognized with numerous reader awards, including from the Toronto Star.
His commitment to welfare and the well-being of others goes beyond animals. In 2009, Mark and his partner became guardians to an unprotected minor considered by the UN to be an urgent protection case. This remarkable young man lived with Mark and Dave for four years as he graduated high school before graduating from the University of Toronto with a B.Sc. Although Saif passed away in October 2022, the impact his presence in their lives has had on Mark and Dave will never be forgotten.
Kahu Animal Hospital represents a special opportunity for Mark, based on his years dedicated to animal welfare, to design and operate a veterinary hospital that is entirely focused on animals and their guardians. He looks forward to connecting with the community surrounding Kahu Animal Hospital and sharing what his vision looks like for an animal care clinic that will define what it means to provide accessible, high quality, patient centred services.
He couldn’t be more excited to work with you and those for whom you are Kahu!
