File Photo/CHAT News

By Jesse Gill

ANIMAL POUND

City of Medicine Hat will continue operation of animal pound services

Sep 8, 2025 | 10:53 AM

The City of Medicine Hat will continue to operate animal pound services permanently following the cancellation of a request for proposals (RFP).

The city assumed operations of animal pound services in June following the conclusion of a contract with Animal Pound and Rescue Centres (APARC).

Soon after, an RFP was issued to determine if other animal welfare organizations had an interest and ability to either operate the full facility or administer adoption and fostering programs on behalf of the city.

Through the RFP process, city administration were unable to find an operator that met the requirements of the operation.

“We received two proposals through the RFP process, but no submission fully satisfied the operational requirements within the budget of the project,” said the director of parks and recreation James Will.

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“Fortunately, the city has been operating this service successfully during this temporary period, so we feel confident in taking on the operation.”

A release from the city said the public can expect to see the same standards of care for animals in the facility, and the city will maintain partnership opportunities with groups like the Humane Society (SPCA), vet clinics, and other animal services like grooming, daycare, cremation for the provision of services.

As the operation evolves, volunteer opportunities, as well as public education and engagement regarding animal pound services, will be incorporated.

Staff are also working to implement online licensing in the coming months.

Hours of operation and contact information for the Animal Pound Services facility are available on the city website.