BONNYVILLE –

The Bonnyville SPCA has a new name, but the animals, the people caring for them and the organization’s mission aren’t going anywhere.

After 25 years serving the community, the organization has officially rebranded as Bonnyville Animal Rescue, a name its Board says better reflects the work happening at the local shelter.

The change also clears up a common misconception about the organization’s role when it comes to animal welfare and enforcement.

Why the Name Change?

Board President Caitlyn Bush says the decision came down to making sure the community understands what the organization does and the services it provides.

“The Board decided a name change was needed to be able to better serve, better educate and better align with what we actually do for the community,” Bush explained.

While some SPCAs have the authority to conduct animal welfare investigations and seize animals under certain circumstances, the Bonnyville organization has never operated in that capacity.

Instead, its role has been to rescue, shelter and care for animals until they can be placed in permanent homes.

Bush describes the organization as a transition centre, helping animals make the journey from the streets to the shelter and eventually into a forever home.

The new name removes some of the confusion surrounding the SPCA title while giving the organization an identity that more accurately represents its work.

“This name change allows us to continue to do for the community what we have for the past 25 years,” Bush said.

What Changes for the Community?

For residents looking to adopt a pet, support the shelter or access its existing services, the answer is simple: not much.

Executive Director Lindsay McNaught says the name change won’t affect daily operations.

“Our animal care, adoption processes and the services we provide to the community will continue as they always have,” McNaught said.

“The name change is about better reflecting who we are and what we do, rather than changing how we operate.”

The organization will continue caring for vulnerable animals and working to find them safe, loving homes.

“Our commitment to helping our community’s most vulnerable animals and finding them loving homes will remain at the heart of what we do!” McNaught added.

What’s Next for Bonnyville Animal Rescue?

Although the name change doesn’t bring immediate operational changes, there are plans in the works.

McNaught says the organization is looking at introducing new fundraising initiatives in 2027, developing community outreach programs and potentially adding more kennels to its existing facility.

Additional kennel space could allow the rescue to accommodate more animals, although expansion plans are still being explored.

“We’re always looking for ways to grow sustainably, improve our services, and meet the needs of our community,” McNaught said.

A New Name Built on 25 Years of Support

For the volunteers, donors, adopters and community members who have supported the Bonnyville SPCA over the years, McNaught wants to make one thing clear: the name may be different, but the work isn’t.

“We want our supporters to know that while our name and logo is changing, our mission is not,” she said.

“This organization has a long history of caring for animals, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has been a part of it!”

The rebrand marks a new chapter for an organization that has spent the past 25 years helping animals in the Bonnyville area, while recognizing the community support that has made that work possible.

“This is an opportunity to honour the foundation that has been built, while looking ahead for new opportunities for growth and impact,” McNaught said.