Alberta SPCA
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about the Alberta SPCA.
Looking to Report an Animal In Distress?
Call us at 1-800-455-9003 or fill out our online form
Our Jurisdiction and Reach
What legislation does the Alberta SPCA enforce?
The Alberta SPCA enforces the Animal Protection Act (APA), Alberta’s provincial animal welfare legislation overseen by the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation. The APA defines when animals are considered in distress, what duties caregivers must provide for their animals, roles and responsibilities for peace officers, fines and penalties for violations, and more.
Certain “generally accepted practices,” like rodeos, are exempt from specific provisions of the APA, and instead must fall within regulations set forth by the government or in accordance with reasonable and generally accepted practices.
Can the Alberta SPCA lay criminal charges?
Alberta SPCA peace officers can only lay charges under Alberta’s Animal Protection Act. Serious animal cruelty cases may also result in Criminal Code charges pursued by police.
Do Alberta SPCA peace officers have the ability to enter private dwellings without a warrant?
No, Alberta SPCA peace officers cannot enter private dwellings without permission or a court-issued warrant.
Once the changes in the Animal Protection Amendment Act go into effect, peace officers can require that caregivers produce animals from inside private dwellings for inspection if they believe, on reasonable grounds, that an animal is in distress, or to ensure compliance with a prohibition or corrective action order.
Does the Alberta SPCA have authority to enforce the APA on First Nations land?
Yes, but only once we are invited on by the Band leadership or RCMP. We cannot legally respond to reports of animals in distress on First Nations’ land if we do not receive permission from the band to attend.
Typically, enforcement of the APA on First Nations’ land falls to police services or the RCMP. Some First Nations have their own bylaws and enforcement to manage animal welfare concerns.
If we are invited, we are eager to work with local enforcement to help relieve distress, or provide guidance and resources to ensure animals are treated humanely.
We will continue to advocate for the humane treatment of animals across the entire province and address root-cause issues through education and awareness.
Why hasn’t the Alberta SPCA shut down the live transportation of horses for consumption?
Live transportation of horses is regulated at a federal level by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Alberta SPCA peace officers exclusively enforce the APA, working to ensure animals are free from distress within Alberta. While our peace officers can inspect animals in transit within Alberta, international live animal transport at airports is supervised by the CFIA.
We encourage Albertans concerned about international live animal transport should contact the CFIA online or by phone at 1-800-442-2342, or contact their local MP.
Does the Alberta SPCA have the authority to shut down online animal auction marts?
Online animal sale and auction marts are regulated by Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Alberta.
Under the APA, physical auction marts and commercial facilities selling live animals are subject to inspection. However, online sales platforms are not subject to the same oversight. Currently, we have no jurisdiction over online animal auctions.
Our peace officers can respond to reports of animals in distress at a physical location.
Is it legal to buy/sell companion pets online?
Yes, in Alberta it is legal to sell animals online. Many breeders use online platforms to sell their animals.
We strongly encourage Albertans to choose adoption over purchasing as adopting animals helps alleviate the current pressures felt in the animal welfare system, and animals from unethical or low welfare breeding practices are often sold online. To learn more about the benefits of adopting, click here.
If you choose to purchase, always meet the animal where it was raised. Ensure the animal has proper living conditions and, if possible, meet the parents of the animal to ensure they are well cared for.
Are certain animals illegal to own in Alberta?
Yes, certain species are on Alberta’s controlled animals list, managed by the department of Environment and Protected Areas. The Alberta SPCA does not have authority to enforce the controlled species list as this is enforced by Alberta Fish and Wildlife officers
Who issues prohibition orders?
It’s up to the courts to prohibit someone from owning animals if they have been convicted of an offence under the Animal Protection Act. The Alberta SPCA can put forward a prohibition order request if we believe the guilty person will continue to mistreat animals. The final decision, however, is up to the courts.
The Alberta SPCA
Is the Alberta SPCA an animal shelter?
No, the Alberta SPCA is not an animal shelter; however we do shelter animals across the province.
As the only organization dedicated to enforcing animal protection laws across the entire province, preventing distress is at the heart of our work. We take a proactive approach — advocating, educating and working alongside government, partners and Albertans to ensure animals receive the care and compassion they deserve. By standing up for Alberta’s animals and supporting their caregivers, we’re building healthier, safer communities for everyone.
When an animal enters our care, we work alongside with a network of temporary housing partners, shelters and rescues to find animals loving new homes.
Can I adopt and animal through the Alberta SPCA?
You cannot adopt animals through the Alberta SPCA directly.
When animals come into our care after seizure or surrender, we work to find new homes for them. This is done through our network of adoption partners and caregivers.
For a non-comprehensive list of animal shelters and rescues in Alberta, see our animal shelters page.
Is the Alberta SPCA a government organization?
The Alberta SPCA is a registered charity in Alberta, not a government entity. While a portion of our enforcement activities are funded through the Government of Alberta and our peace officers operate under the Peace Officer Act, we are not a government organization.
How is the Alberta SPCA funded?
While the Government of Alberta Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation has provided the Alberta SPCA with funding to support a portion of our enforcement activities, about 80% of our total funding comes from charitable donations and lottery proceeds.
We rely on our generous donors to enable us to protect animals across the province. Click here to learn how you can make a difference.
Is the Alberta SPCA connected with other SPCA's in the province or country?
While we work collaboratively with many organizations and government agencies to promote animal welfare in our province, the Alberta SPCA is not directly affiliated with any other agency within or outside of Alberta. This includes other SPCAs in Alberta, other provinces or outside of Canada.
Animals In Alberta
How can I find my lost pet?
If you discover your pet missing, after searching your neighbourhood, contact your municipal or county Animal Service or Bylaw department. Visit municipal animal services in person at least every two days. You should also contact the veterinarians in your area, and if possible, leave a poster with the animal’s photo and your phone number.
In Edmonton, call Edmonton Animal Services at 780-496-8860 or check the City of Edmonton’s website for a list of things you should do and pictures of recovered pets.
In Calgary, call Calgary Animal Services at 403-268-1160 or check their Impounded Animals page .
In Red Deer, call Alberta Animal Services at 403-347-2388 or visit their website.
In Lethbridge, check with Community Animal Services.
In Grande Prairie or the County of Grande Prairie, check with Animal Control.
In Fort McMurray, head the Fort McMurray SPCA website.
Where can I get information about pet care and animal health?
Visit the Animal Care Resources section on our website for helpful tips, information and additional resources on how to provide the best care for your pet.
The Alberta Animal Health Source website hosted by the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association’s (ABVMA) is an excellent resource for health and welfare information for domestic animals in our province.
Who looks after stray animals and barking dogs?
Establishing and enforcing regulations for licensing, leashing, and controlling noise of pets is the responsibility of each municipality or county.
In Edmonton, call the Edmonton Animal Care & Control Centre by calling the City’s 311 line, or check the City of Edmonton’s website for a list of things you should do.
In Calgary, call Calgary Animal Services at 403-268-2489 or visit their website for tips.
In Red Deer, call Alberta Animal Services at 403-347-2388 or visit their website for more information.
In Lethbridge, call Community Animal Services 403-320-4099 or visit their website for more information.
Anywhere else, call your town or county hall and ask for the Animal Services or bylaw department.
I've found an injured/orphaned wild animal. What should I do?
Unless a wild animal is in immediate danger, it is usually best to leave it alone.
If you believe you have found an orphaned wild animal, it may not have been abandoned. Mother deer and hares often leave their young on their own, so their scent doesn’t attract predators.
To get animal specific information, call the Wildlife Help Line at 1-888-924-2444 or check with the wildlife rehabilitation centre nearest you.
Our Enforcement Practices
How do you find out about animals in distress?
We rely on the public to inform us if they suspect an animal is being abused or neglected. Most often this is done through calls to our toll-free reporting line 1-800-455-9003.
What happens to animals that are seized?
Animals that are seized are moved to a caretaking facility. When large numbers of animals are seized, they may be taken to a commercial facility that has the capacity to hold and care for them. After a holding period (specified by the Animal Protection Act), new homes may be found for the animals, or in some cases the animals may be sold.
Who determines the amount of the fine?
If someone is found guilty of an offence under the Animal Protection Act, the court assesses the fine. The maximum fine under the Act is $20,000. In addition, the court may prohibit the guilty party from owning or caring for animals, or limit the number of animals they may own. Fines are paid directly to the Government of Alberta, not the Alberta SPCA.
What should the public do if they suspect an animal is in distress?
Anyone who believes an animal is being neglected or in distress is encouraged to call our Animal Protection Line – 1-800-455-9003. We encourage the public to call whenever they have reason to believe animals are in distress, even if they have called in the past. The conditions of animals can deteriorate quickly, particularly if they are in poor shape during extreme weather events.