The Front Line of Animal Protection
Whenever animals are in distress, wherever caregivers need support, we’re here to answer the call.
Our Purpose
At the Alberta SPCA, our purpose is to protect, promote and enhance the well-being of animals in Alberta.
As the only organization enforcing animal protection laws province-wide, we do more than respond when animals are in need — we work to prevent harm before it happens. Through education, advocacy and partnerships with communities, caregivers and government, we’re helping build a province where animals are respected and cared for. Because when animals thrive, so do the people around them.
Common Misconceptions
Misconception #1
We're an animal shelter or humane society
Misconception #1
We're an animal shelter or humane society Many people assume we’re a shelter that offers animals for adoption. While we do have animals in our care, we don’t operate a physical shelter. The animals we take in come from our distress and neglect investigations. They are then placed with one of our caretaking partners until they’re ready to be adopted through one of our sheltering partners.
Misconception #2
We’re just about cats and dogs.
Misconception #2
We’re just about cats and dogs. Of course, we’re here for cats and dogs—but our work goes far beyond that. We protect all companion animals and livestock across Alberta, including horses, cattle, pigs, chickens, pet rabbits, guinea pigs, bearded dragons and many others. If an animal is under the care and control of a person and it’s in distress, we’re here to help.
Misconception #3
We’re 100% government-funded.
Misconception #3
We’re 100% government-funded. Many people believe we’re fully funded by the government, but that’s not the case. While we do receive some government support for our enforcement activities, 80% of our funding comes from our generous donors. As a registered charity, we rely on the compassion of Albertans to protect animals across the province. Simply put, we couldn’t do it without you.
What We Do
Protecting animals takes action, compassion and community — and we do it best when we do it together.
Featured Stories
Updates on animal welfare across Alberta.
Ways to Help
You can support Alberta’s animals through simple, meaningful actions that make a big difference.
Call volume
Animal Investigations
Animals Helped
Classrooms
