Veterinarian and Medical Director (BVSc &AH, MVSc(Pathology))
Dr. Dilbag Rana has been practicing veterinary medicine for over 42 years. His love for animals started early—he grew up surrounded by dairy animals and family dogs. When his family lost a beloved buffalo to illness, it was a turning point that inspired him to dedicate his life to animal health and healing.
He graduated in 1983 with a BVSc& AH degree, followed by a master’s in Pathology with a minor in Bacteriology and Virology. After moving to Canada, Dr. Rana joined the prestigious Purdue University in Indiana USA, where he gained extensive exposure to North American standards of veterinary medicine and Surgery.
Over the years, his professional interests have grown to include internal medicine, soft tissue and orthopedic surgery, endoscopy, ultrasound, clinical pathology, and dentistry. Under his leadership, Apex Animal Hospital became one of the best-equipped hospitals in British Columbia and earned full AAHA accreditation—a reflection of his commitment to excellence in patient care.
Dr. Rana is passionate about lifelong learning and has continued to expand his skills through advanced training at leading institutions:
• Endoscopy and Arthroscopy – Washington State University, Pullman, WA
• Laser Surgery – Ontario Veterinary College, Guelph, ON
• TPLO Surgery – Western Veterinary Conference, Las Vegas, NV
• Ear Canal Ablation and Bulla Osteotomy – WVC, Las Vegas, NV
• Ultrasound – Sound Technologies, Arlington, TX
• Advanced Dental Surgery, Root Canals, and Jaw Surgery – Baltimore, MD
• Emergency and Critical Care Procedures – San Antonio, TX
• Exotic Pets and Small Mammal Medicine
He is proficient in multiple orthopedic and oncologic surgical techniques, including cruciate and fracture repairs.
Dr. Rana has also served the profession through various roles with the College of Veterinarians of BC and as a member of the National Examining Board of the CVMA.
Outside of work, Dr. Rana finds balance in painting, writing, and gardening. He lives with his wife—formerly a community counsellor who now helps manage the hospital—and their two pets, Snowy and Riley. Their elder daughter is a general surgeon and their younger daughter is a family physician, both practicing in BC.