Rico Finds a Home: From Mexico to Canada

Rico meets his new big brother David Spadafora at an adoption event on Sunday March 1, 2026. Days later the Spadafora family adopted Rico and welcomed him into his forever home. (Photo by Annaka Didrikson/SAIT)

Three weeks ago, the Spadafora family welcomed a young, small, tan rescue dog named Rico into their home. He now never wants to leave their arms.

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Six Ways Calgarians Can Support Rescue Dogs 

A six week old black Labrador puppy at the Calgary Humane Society in Calgary on Friday, Feb. 27, 2026. The foundation put on a Puppy Party, where all rescue puppies were adopted into their forever homes. (Photo by Annaka Didrikson/SAIT)

Not everyone is ready or able to adopt a dog, but that doesn’t mean you can’t help one. Animal rescue foundations around Calgary like AARCS and the Calgary Humane Society rely on community support to care for animals before they find their forever homes. Many of these organizations are supported by volunteers, donations and fosters. Without that support it would be challenging to keep up with the number of animals coming into care. 

Small actions make a big difference for local rescues and can impact a dog’s journey to finding a home. In a city like Calgary, rescue organizations depend on public involvement. Every contribution helps. 

Here are six ways Calgarians can support rescue dogs when adoption isn’t an option.

The Hearts Behind the Kennels

Presly sits and sniffs cautiously inside her kennel with a volunteer at AARCS in Calgary on Friday, Jan. 30, 2026. Presly was recently rescued and brought in to AARCS Safe Haven, she is now working with volunteers to build her trust, and find a forever home. (Photo by Annaka Didrikson/SAIT)

Inside AARCS Safe Haven

A volunteer sits cross legged on the concrete floor inside a cool grey kennel. Their hand is folded out with a small treat in the middle of their palm, just waiting. 

On the other side of the kennel a frightened dog named Presly watches. She is deciding whether today is the day to trust.