Our Response to Proposed Changes to Alberta’s Animal Protection Act
What These Proposed Changes Could Mean for Animals
Earlier this week, the Government of Alberta introduced proposed updates to the Animal Protection Act — legislation that has not seen significant changes in decades.
At the Edmonton Humane Society (EHS), we see this as an important and much-needed step toward strengthening how animal welfare is addressed in our province.
EHS participated in the province’s engagement process last year, and it’s encouraging to see elements of our sector’s feedback reflected in the proposed changes — particularly those that recognize advancements in animal welfare understanding. This includes updates to how distress is defined, recognition of fear and anxiety, as well as the importance of appropriate care that supports animals’ behavioural, environmental, and species-specific needs.
Why This Matters
In our role within the animal protection system, EHS provides care and rehabilitation for animals involved in investigations led by enforcement agencies. We see the devastating impacts that neglect and abuse can have on both an animal’s physical and mental health.
Through this work, we understand how legislation influences when intervention can happen, what care can be provided, and how quickly animals can move toward recovery and rehoming. Clear, modern legislation plays an important role in supporting better outcomes for animals.
“Animals coming into our care from protection cases often arrive in vulnerable conditions and require both medical and behavioural support to recover. Legislation plays a critical role in how quickly intervention can occur and what care can be provided. Strengthening and modernizing the Act will help those responsible for protecting animals do so more effectively, ultimately leading to better outcomes for animals.”
Liza Sunley
, CEO, Edmonton Humane Society
What Happens Next
We are continuing to review the proposed changes and will be following the progress of this legislation closely. EHS remains committed to working collaboratively across the sector and serving as a practical resource as the legislation moves forward.
For media inquiries, please view our media statement or contact communications@edmontonhumanesociety.com.