Animal Protection

All domestic animals depend on people to meet their basic needs for food, water, shelter and care. Animals that are in distress from lack of these legal requirements cannot ask for help. The Alberta SPCA relies upon concerned members of the public to report animal cruelty and neglect. Every report we receive is investigated by one of eight Alberta SPCA Peace Officers, who operate out of offices in Edmonton, Red Deer, Strathmore and Grande Prairie.

Alberta SPCA Peace Officers are appointed by the Solicitor General and Minister of Public Security to enforce provincial statutes pertaining to animal welfare. The Alberta SPCA has developed comprehensive guidelines for all aspects of investigations, including receiving complaints, complaint investigation, biosecurity procedures, investigation reports, issuing notices, taking animals into protective custody, and the use of veterinarians. If you would like more information on these procedures, please

Animal Protection Laws

Animal Protection is offered under both provincial and federal legislation. The two main laws protecting animals against abuse and neglect are Alberta’s Animal Protection Act (APA) and the Criminal Code of Canada.