Where to adopt a dog in Central Alberta (and why Four Feet and a Heartbeat is a top choice)

If you’re searching for dog adoption in Central Alberta, you’re not alone—and you’re in exactly the right place. Whether you’re in Red Deer, Lacombe, Ponoka, Edmonton, Calgary, or somewhere in between, there are amazing dogs waiting for their forever families.

Adopting a dog is a big step—and one of the most meaningful ways to change two lives at once: yours and theirs.

Highly driven german shepherd, 2 year old male dog, available for adoption in Alberta

🏔️ Why Central Alberta Needs More Dog Adopters

Across Alberta, and especially in rural communities, shelters and rescues are operating well over capacity. Many dogs come from neglect, abandonment, or overcrowded facilities—and without adopters stepping forward, their futures are uncertain.

At Four Feet and a Heartbeat, we work with municipalities and partner groups across Red Deer, Lacombe County, Ponoka, Edmonton, Calgary, and beyond to match at-risk dogs with compassionate humans ready to give them a second chance.

By adopting locally, you’re not just gaining a dog—you’re creating space for the next one in need.

📍 Where to Find Dogs for Adoption in Central Alberta

There are several reputable options across the region:

Municipal shelters (e.g. City of Red Deer Animal Services)
Large rescue organizations (like AARCS or Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society)
Community-based rescues like Four Feet and a Heartbeat
Online adoption platforms (Petfinder, Adopt-a-Pet)

Each has its own process—but smaller, local rescues like ours often provide a more personalized, flexible experience and serve dogs who may not thrive in larger facilities.

💗 Why Choose Four Feet and a Heartbeat

Waffles, a highly adoptable, young adult, female mastiff dog, available for adoption in Alberta

We’re a no-kill dog rescue based just outside Lacombe, Alberta, serving Central Alberta and Western Canada. Formerly known as CARES K9 Country Orphanage, we’ve spent over 30 years rescuing dogs—and occasionally other animals like llamas, goats, and chickens—from high-risk situations.

What sets us apart?

🏡 A peaceful 6-acre property where dogs can decompress and feel safe
🐕 Dedicated time, space, and care for each animal
🚗 Adoptions across Alberta and Western Canada (and beyond if travel is arranged)
❤️ A lifelong no-kill promise—every dog stays with us until they find a home
🤝 Trusted by veterinarians, rural municipalities, and fellow rescues

We focus on quality placements, not quantity, and welcome adopters who understand that rescue dogs sometimes come with limited histories—but lots of heart.

📝 How to Adopt a Dog from Us

Our process is simple, respectful, and designed for thoughtful adopters:

Visit fourfeet.ca/adopt to view our current adoptable dogs
Review the adoption agreement to ensure it’s a fit
Email us to express interest in a specific dog
Schedule a meet-and-greet by appointment
Complete the adoption paperwork and head home with your new best friend

We don’t operate a public-facing shelter, so all visits are by appointment—but we do our best to respond promptly to serious inquiries.

🐾 Ready to Meet Your Match?

Whether you’re in Calgary, Red Deer, Edmonton, or a quiet rural town nearby, we’d love to help you find the dog that fits your energy, space, and heart.

👉 Meet our adoptable dogs now

Because every forever home starts with four feet—and a heartbeat.

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