Calgary’s own Canadian Animal Task Force has been quietly transforming the landscape of animal welfare for over a decade, tackling the root causes of overpopulation and lack of access to veterinary care. At the helm of communications is Amber Marleau, Communications and Marketing Manager, who has helped shape the organization’s growth from grassroots beginnings to the recent milestone opening of the Task Force Animal Hospital. Partnering with Indigenous communities, municipalities, and rescue groups, the Task Force works to bridge barriers with spay and neuter clinics, wellness care, and emergency response — all grounded in respect and collaboration.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
The Canadian Animal Task Force provides access to spay and neuter services, wellness care, and emergency support to communities facing barriers to animal care — both rural and urban. We work in partnership with Indigenous communities, municipalities, and rescue groups to reduce overpopulation and improve animal and human well-being.
What problem does it aim to solve?
There is a significant gap in access to veterinary care in many regions, especially for remote or underserved communities. This leads to animal overpopulation, suffering, and public health concerns. Our work helps address that root problem with proactive, community-led solutions.
When did you start/join it?
My journey with the Canadian Animal Task Force began over a decade ago, driven by a deep passion for animal welfare and a desire to create meaningful change for both animals and communities.
In the early days, I showed up with a camera and a heart full of hope — volunteering where I could and learning what it meant to work with communities rather than for them. That philosophy has stuck with me and continues to guide everything I do with the Task Force today.
Over the years, I’ve worn many hats — from running communications and supporting field operations, to helping our organization grow in capacity and impact. One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been witnessing firsthand how collaborative, community-based care can transform lives — not just for the animals we assist, but also for the people.
I’m proud to be part of a team that’s committed to building bridges, not barriers. Whether it’s facilitating spay and neuter clinics, supporting emergency natural disaster response efforts, or helping launch the Task Force Animal Hospital, the work we do is rooted in respect, relationships, and a shared goal of creating healthier communities.
The Canadian Animal Task Force is more than a workplace for me — it’s a purpose, a privilege, and a promise to keep showing up where we’re needed most.
What made you want to get involved?
I was shocked by how many animals were in need throughout Alberta. Honestly, I had no idea — and I’m a little embarrassed by that. But once I knew, I knew I had to do something. I was in my early twenties and wanted to be part of something meaningful that offered a solution. For me, that meant focusing on the root of the problem. I’ve seen firsthand how access — or the lack of it — can shape outcomes. I wanted to be part of something that prioritized long-term change, built on respect and collaboration, not just crisis response.
What was the situation like when you started?
When I first started, everything still felt new — we were just beginning to build relationships, form connections, and earn trust. We were the ones being welcomed into communities, so it was important to show up with kindness and support, offering care for the animals they love. It opened my eyes to the unique challenges in more remote areas. Being able to work together to provide veterinary care and then reunite pets with their families shortly after… that part never gets old. Seeing the smiles from the kids when their pet comes home — that always stays with me.
How has it changed since?
We opened the Task Force Animal Hospital in Calgary in 2025 — a milestone that’s expanded our ability to provide subsidized veterinary care. Demand for our services continues to outpace capacity, which makes ongoing support crucial.
What more needs to be done?
Our work is far from over — and it’s only with the passion and commitment of people like you that real change happens. We need more members of our community to step forward — by raising awareness, lending their time as volunteers, or becoming donors who believe in a future where every pet has access to care. Your involvement can spark hope and create lasting impact.
How can our readers help?
💙 Sign up as a $5/month donor — small gifts add up = bigger impact.
💚 Become a volunteer with CATF! No experience necessary!
📢 Share our mission — awareness is half the battle. Start here
🏡 Become a foster with your local group — they need your help now more than ever.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Instagram | Facebook
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
Dare to Care: Bullying Prevention in Sports – they’re tackling bullying in sport through education, awareness and by empowering a caring majority. While they’re not in our field of animal welfare, we think their mission is so important!
