The Government of Saskatchewan is establishing a new animal welfare enforcement agency, the Saskatchewan Animal Enforcement Agency (SAEA), which is set to begin operations on April 1.

This agency will take over the responsibilities of the Animal Protection Services of Saskatchewan, which will cease operations on March 31, 2026.

This change maintains the existing arrangement where Regina handles its enforcement independently from the provincial service provider.

“The Saskatchewan Animal Enforcement Agency looks forward to working with the Ministry of Agriculture as well as other external stakeholders in the province,” said board chair Chief Russ Austin.

Agriculture Minister David Marit expressed hope for stronger animal welfare enforcement in the province.

Community volunteers, especially in rural areas, have faced challenges due to a lack of animal protection officers; the SAEA is expected to provide greater support to local rescue groups.

The Saskatchewan SPCA welcomed the announcement, emphasizing the need for better training and faster response times for enforcement officers, especially in large-scale animal seizure situations.

The SAEA aims to operate with integrity, professionalism, and transparency, and was established following public consultations that resulted in new legislative measures to strengthen animal protection.