Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on our advocacy work, issues affecting companion animals, and the latest news, events and opportunities to get involved.
Subscribe NowAt the Edmonton Humane Society (EHS), we believe in building a community where people and pets thrive, together. We also know that supporting companion animals and the people who care for them means addressing the underlying challenges and circumstances that shape their lives.
Through advocacy, EHS works to create positive change beyond our shelter. We work with policymakers, community members and partners to advance efforts that support the well-being of companion animals while creating a kinder, safer and more pet-inclusive community.
What Does Animal Advocacy Mean?
Animal advocacy is about creating lasting change that improves the lives of companion animals and the people who care for them. It includes preventing harm before it happens, responding when animals are at risk, and strengthening the laws, systems and resources that support them. Through education, community programs and policy work, we work toward stronger supports and protections for companion animals across our community.
To learn more about where EHS stands on various animal welfare issues, please visit our position statements.
1. Reducing and Preventing Neglect and Harm
Strong animal protection laws and effective enforcement play an important role in keeping animals safe. EHS advocates for stronger legislation while working to support those responsible for enforcement and promote education and awareness that help prevent harm.
2. Improving Access to Affordable Veterinary Care
Veterinary care is essential to the health and well-being of companion animals, but rising costs can create challenges for many families. EHS strives to improve access to affordable care by supporting accessible veterinary programs, exploring innovative approaches to veterinary services, and strengthening the resources available to companion animals and their guardians.
3. Addressing Cat Management and Overpopulation
Supporting healthy cat populations requires proactive, humane approaches that address the factors contributing to cat overpopulation. EHS works to promote accessible spay/neuter programs, education on cat care and partnerships with municipalities to support effective community cat strategies.
4. Expanding Access to Pet-Inclusive Housing
Access to pet-inclusive housing is an important part of keeping people and their pets together. EHS aims to advance more pet-friendly and pet-inclusive housing options through policy advocacy, education and collaboration with tenants, housing providers and community partners.
Your Voice Can Create Change
Every voice matters when it comes to improving the lives of companion animals. By sharing your perspective with your elected representatives, you can help ensure the needs of pets and the people who care for them are considered when decisions are made. Together, we can build stronger protections for animals and more pet-inclusive communities.
- Contact Your Edmonton City Councillor
- Contact Your Alberta Member of Legislative Assembly
- Contact Your Canadian Member of Parliament
Recent Advocacy Updates
Explore our latest advocacy news and updates to see how we’re working to advance animal welfare and strengthen support for companion animals across our community.
- Updates to Alberta’s Animal Protection Act Receive Royal Assent [May 2026]
- Our Response to Proposed Changes to Alberta’s Animal Protection Act [April 2026]
- What Matters Most for Animal Welfare? [November 2025]
- EHS Welcomes Updates to Edmonton’s Animal Care and Control Bylaw [August 2025]
- Why Pets Deserve a Place in Every Emergency Plan [July 2025]
- Why This Election Matters for Animals [April 2025]