Animal Control rescues 97 dogs from Gregoire home

(Fort McMurray, AB – August 28, 2026) – On Aug. 25, 2026, Bylaw Services executed a search warrant under the Alberta Animal Protection Act for a home in Gregoire, where 97 small breed dogs were found to be living inside. All 97 dogs were rescued by Animal Control and put into the care of the Fort McMurray SPCA. The investigation is ongoing, and charges are pending for the individual who was onsite where the dogs were found. 

“This was one of the largest dog rescues we’ve ever done,” said Bylaw Services Manager, Aaron Anderson, “I want to thank everyone who played an important role in this incident. The bylaw services officers who assisted in safely rescuing and transporting these dogs, to the SPCA team who was onsite helping with the animals, and to the Wood Buffalo RCMP who assisted in executing the search warrant. All 97 dogs are now safe and receiving the care they need from the Fort McMurray SPCA." 

Ways you can help 

The 97 dogs will each require a medical examination by a veterinarian, including vaccinations and spay or neutering. This will take weeks and sometimes months before they are ready for adoption. 

“We are currently not accepting adoption applications for these dogs. We will share updates at Fort McMurray SPCA Facebook page as they become ready for adoption.” said Melanie Schneider, Executive Director of Fort McMurray SPCA.  

If you want to help, please consider: 

• volunteering your time at the SPCA 

• volunteering as a foster 

• making a donation to the SPCA,  

• helping to buy specialized treatment and food that many of these dogs will require. 

Please reach out to the Fort McMurray SPCA for information specific to adoption and donations. 

Report animal welfare concerns 

If you witness an animal welfare concern, please report it to Pulse, and animal control can come out to assess the situation. In an emergency, call 911. 

If you’re struggling to care for your dog(s) or cat(s), consider rehoming your animal first. This is an important first step to help find your pet a safe home. If you are unable to rehome your animal, Bylaw Services can help. Surrendering a pet is an understandably difficult decision, but it's an important step to ensure an animal's wellbeing. It's a serious matter when animals are put in harm's way, which is why we encourage pet owners to reach out if they're having challenges. 

Learn more about responsible pet ownership. 

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