Calgary Humane Society at capacity. Here's how to help.

Due to an overwhelming number of animals admitted to the shelter over the past several weeks, Calgary Humane Society is temporarily closed for animal intakes.

“Calgary Humane Society is currently caring for 350 animals which is close to double our ideal capacity and exceeds pre-pandemic levels”, says Executive Director Carrie Fritz. “We anticipated we would see an increase in intakes post-COVID, however we never imagined it would be this severe. Add in the impact of a poor economy, high inflation, and a severe shortage of pet-friendly housing in Calgary, and we are facing a crisis situation similar to what animal welfare organizations were dealing with over a decade ago. People are really struggling to keep their animals in their homes and shelters across North America are bursting at the seams. We offer various support programs for families who need help with their animal but we simply cannot keep up with the demand.”

Calgary Humane Society is even experiencing people coming from outside of our jurisdiction, desperately seeking surrender services. This very weekend we had a breeder facing eviction, unable to re-home puppies, stay overnight in our parking lot. These dogs were destined to live in a vehicle in the heat of summer if CHS did not intervene and as a result CHS facilitated a mass intake of 22 dogs.

The Society will remain open for emergency situations only, and non-urgent cases will be added to a waitlist to be admitted once there is adequate space.

Calgary Humane Society is pleading with anyone considering welcoming a new companion animal to their home to first do their research. Understand what is required to be able to responsibly care for them. Speak with a veterinarian about annual vet costs (including the cost of spaying and neutering your pet), consider pet insurance for unexpected veterinary bills, talk to your landlord, and make sure you source your pet responsibly. Visit calgaryhumane.ca to view our animals up for adoption and consider adopting today.

Individuals who are not in a position to adopt at this time can help by becoming a Foster Parent or donating to help CHS care for the hundreds of animals currently in our care. This society issue was born in the community and we need the community’s help to dig our way out and help more animals. We desperately need foster homes and adopters to help alleviate the pressure.

Learn how you can help or donate now here.