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.
Alberta SPCA History
The Alberta SPCA has been at the forefront of animal welfare advances since being established in 1959 and were instrumental in establishing the Animal Protection Act of Alberta in 1967. We work closely with other agencies in animal welfare, agriculture, education, violence prevention, and other areas to provide the best level of protection for animals.
Alberta SPCA’s role in Animal Protection
Peace officers at the Alberta SPCA enforce the Animal Protection Act (APA) in all areas of Alberta outside the cities of Edmonton and Calgary. The APA makes it an offense to permit an animal to be in distress.
The Alberta SPCA receives thousands of calls each year from people concerned they have witnessed some form neglect or abuse, leading to distress for the animal. Our team investigates animal welfare issues involving all domestic animals, including companion animals and livestock.
Alberta SPCA Foundations
Animals are sentient beings that can experience both positive and negative emotions including distress. The Alberta SPCA believes people have a duty to:
- Accept responsibility for the welfare of animals in their control or custody
- Protect animals from distress and to ensure their welfare
- Relieve or minimize distress to any animal whenever it occurs
- Use animals only in ways that protect them from distress
- Keep, maintain and transport animals safely, in a manner appropriate to the species, and protected from distress
- Ensure, if animals must be killed, the method of killing produces a humane death and is appropriate to the species
In all instances, the position of the Alberta SPCA focuses on responsible animal care, the quality of life and a humane death afforded to animals by humans. Individuals are encouraged to be knowledgeable about animals and human/animal relationships to make informed decisions about personal lifestyle choices.
The vision of the Alberta SPCA is that every animal in Alberta is treated humanely. The mission of the Alberta SPCA is to protect, promote and enhance the well-being of animals in Alberta. To accomplish this, there must be acceptance that humans are responsible for the welfare of animals; and there must be an understanding of the physical and behavioural needs of animals.
This resource reinforces and supports these guiding principles and positions, encouraging students who are interested in involvement with domestic animals, whether livestock or companion, to become more knowledgeable and skilled in their care.