EHS Welcomes Updates to Edmonton’s Animal Care and Control Bylaw
Yesterday, City Council approved the updated Animal Care and Control bylaw — a key step in strengthening protections for animals and supporting responsible pet guardianship in Edmonton.
This is the first major update to the bylaw in over 20 years, making the decision an important milestone for animal welfare in our city. The changes fill gaps in current legislation, giving the City stronger tools to keep animals safe and hold people accountable when animals are at risk.
What makes this especially meaningful is that it reflects more than two years of collaboration between the City, community members, and organizations like ours, all committed to protecting animals and the community we share with them.
How We Contributed
At the Edmonton Humane Society (EHS), we’ve been engaged from the very beginning, providing evidence-based recommendations drawn from decades of experience in animal sheltering and community programs. While enforcement is important, it is only one part of the solution. Education, prevention and proactive programs are equally vital to reaching our vision of people and pets thriving, together.
Looking Ahead
The new bylaw — which comes into effect on May 19, 2026 — will provide a stronger foundation to continue initiatives like spay/neuter programs and to collaborate with the City of Edmonton’s Animal Care & Control Centre on other sustainable strategies that benefit both pets and people.
We are grateful to City Council, the City of Edmonton’s Animal Care & Control Centre, and all partners and community members who contributed to shaping this important bylaw.
EHS remains committed to supporting the City in implementing the new bylaw and in working together to make Edmonton a safer, more compassionate place for animals and the people who care for them. This progress is only possible thanks to the ongoing support of our community — thank you for being part of it.
Liza Sunley, Certified Animal Welfare Administrator (CAWA)
CEO
Edmonton Humane Society
For media inquiries, please view our media statement here or contact communications@edmontonhumanesociety.com.