Bear Valley Rescue Society, founded in 2003 and located in Sundre, Alberta, takes in unwanted, abused, aged or distressed horses and, occasionally, other farm animals.  We currently have over 180 horses in our care and have helped over 1500 through our work over the last twenty years.  We educate the public on the plight of unwanted, abused and aged animals and network with other animal rescue organizations to provide homes for animals in distress.  Bear Valley Rescue is honoured to have been the first equine sanctuary in Canada to be verified by Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries.  We are governed by a board of directors and have an international intern program for volunteers.

Horses have played a huge part in history. Though not used as much now for work, horses are still companion animals and partners for many people.  Sadly though, horses are considered livestock and there is no safety net to ensure they will not be slaughtered for their meat, even after years of care and companionship.  We are there to provide an alternative to slaughter when people are faced with life-changing situations such as job loss, divorce, or deteriorating health, where they can no longer care for their animals; and for horses that have no one in their corner advocating on their behalf.