Langley Township terminates deal with Langley Animal Protection Society
Posted September 12, 2025 8:53 am.
The Township of Langley has terminated its agreement with the Langley Animal Protection Society after 23 years of working together.
Hundreds of animals in need of ‘forever homes’ may soon have nowhere to go after the Langley Animal Protection Society (LAPS) announced Wednesday night that the Township of Langley had decided to terminate their partnership.
By Oct. 10, over 300 animals under LAPS’ care will need to find a new home, after the township directed the group to vacate its leased facilities within 30 days.
“Thirty days’ notice is really tough, with all these animals, and not knowing a plan as to what’s going to happen with them all,” Sarah Jones, executive director of LAPS, told CityNews.
“We have puppies, and cats, and kittens currently in our care, we have about 19 to 20 dogs, and we have probably about 46 cats that are calling this home. So a month’s notice is really difficult for us to try and figure that all out.”
In a statement to CityNews, the township says it pursued discussions with LAPS about a new sheltering-only agreement. Despite more than a year of negotiations, a new deal could not be reached.
“Township is taking all necessary steps to ensure a smooth and effective transition of services with LAPS,” the statement adds.
As of Wednesday, Jones says LAPS remain in communication with the township, but the vacate date remains in place.
She stressed that the organization will do everything it can to remain in the community.
“It’s around-the-clock; it’s something we are completely dedicated to –so, we’re dedicated to this community; we’re dedicated to serving the Township of Langley, and we really want to stay.”
In a letter to the township from Alanna Dale, the daughter of late founder Patti Dale, for whom the shelter is named, she expressed deep concern with the decision.
“My mom and the original founders of the LAPS fought hard to secure the animal control contract in order to bring real lasting improvements for the animals of Langely,” Dale wrote.
“By ending the contract entirely, the township risks dismantling everything that has been built over the last 22 years.”
