The current state of animal welfare remains stagnant due to the insufficient amendments or implementations of relevant laws and bylaws, which is profoundly disappointing. Recently, a peace officer from Parkland County visited our property because we house more than four dogs. We reside on an acreage with a fully fenced yard and actively engage in fostering numerous medical cases until their complete recovery. During the officer's visit, I had in my possession a dog that had sustained injuries after being struck by a vehicle and had sought refuge under a deck during the polar vortex two nights prior. The officer indicated that I could incur a daily fine of $300 if I were to bring the dog inside my residence, citing a lack of exceptions. Compounding the matter, the dog was discovered on the Paul First Nation, prompting the officer to refuse assistance based on federal jurisdiction. When we have previously sought help from the RCMP, they stated they lacked the appropriate jurisdiction as well. Local shelters are already at capacity, leaving dogs in Indigenous communities to suffer without anyone willing to take responsibility for their welfare. This situation raises the question: which rescue organizations possess the financial resources necessary to cover veterinary bills or maintain a facility with adequate staffing? The closure of organizations such as AARCS North only exacerbates this issue. There must be considerations for exceptions for fosters, particularly those in need of medical attention. I inquired whether the outcome would change if the dog had been found within Parkland County—many are found due to Duffield's proximity to the Paul First Nation—and was informed that the animal would be recognized as belonging to the reserve, which could result in potential repercussions for me. It is imperative to question when governmental changes will occur to enhance animal rights. The specific plight of “rez dogs” warrants greater compassion within our society. The Paws Up Program successfully took in 179 dogs from Paul First Nation last year, with 148 requiring medical care, accumulating costs in excess of $100,000. Can Parkland County shoulder such responsibility? Would these animals face euthanasia as a consequence? Rescues are already facing significant challenges in securing both funding and foster homes without governmental assistance. The current situation is indeed tragic, and it is vital that reforms be initiated to facilitate positive change. I fully endorse that the Chief and Council should implement animal control bylaws; however, such measures will not address the barriers that community members face in accessing veterinary care. Financial obstacles will persist regardless of the enactment of these bylaws. #savetherezdogs #rezdogrescue #rezdog #rescueloverepeat #rescuedog #edmontonanimalrescue #yeg #pawsupprogram #pup #edmonton #fyp #canada #opttoadopt #injureddog @saverezdogs - @pawsupprogram