Regional animal protection society
SAVING AND IMPROVING THE LIVES OF ANIMALSRAPS is one of Canada’s largest and most innovative animal-serving agencies. We are re-imagining no-kill rescue by helping animals … and their people.
THE RAPS NO-KILL PROMISE
Our commitment to the animals, and the humans, that we serve
We have developed the “RAPS Model” of sustainable, community-supported, no-kill animal rescue and care. Our holistic approach to animal welfare brings together adoption, lifelong sanctuary, nonprofit veterinary care, education, advocacy and social enterprise.
What We do
Animal Rescue, Care & Community Programs
The Regional Animal Protection Society (RAPS) is one of Canada’s largest and most innovative animal welfare organizations. Based in Richmond, BC, we are re-imagining no-kill animal rescue by helping animals — and their people — through rescue, adoption, lifelong sanctuary, nonprofit veterinary care, education, advocacy and social enterprise.
RAPS cat sanctuary
RAPS Cat Sanctuary – Canada’s largest, located in Richmond, BC – offers lifelong sanctuary to hundreds of mostly unadoptable cats, giving safety, dignity, and love to those who would otherwise face euthanasia.
RAPS Adoption & Education
RAPS helps homeless cats, kittens and other companion animals find loving forever homes. Through our Richmond, BC Adoption & Education Centre, we also help people understand the joys and responsibilities of animal companionship.
raps animal hospital
We are transforming veterinary care through a community-owned, non-profit model that puts every animal’s health and well-being — not profit — at the center of everything we do.
RAPS Thrift Stores
RAPS operates three vibrant thrift stores. Every donated item sold fuels our mission, funding and sustaining lifesaving programs across all RAPS initiatives.
our MISSION
Saving and improving the lives of animals and their people.
our vision
To make lives, families, neighbourhoods and communities safer, healthier and happier through a holistic, community-centred approach to animal welfare.
our values
We demonstrate respect for animals and people through direct care for homeless, abandoned, stray and surrendered companion animals and by educating people about the benefits and responsibilities of animal companionship.
WAYS YOU CAN HELP ANIMALS
ADOPT
RAPS brings companion animals and forever families together. If you’re ready to welcome a new member, learn what to consider, how to prepare, and meet the animals waiting to take their place at the heart of your home.
surrender
Adopting a pet is a lifelong commitment. When circumstances change, surrendering through a trusted, compassionate organization ensures the animal’s safety, well-being, and a second chance at a loving home.
Foster
Our fostering network is the heartbeat of our no-kill promise. Loving, patient homes provide temporary care, socialization, and healing for animals in transition — preparing them for the next chapter of their lives.
volunteer
RAPS exists for the animals — but everything we do is powered by a passionate community of volunteers who provide individualized care to thousands each year. If helping animals is your calling, we invite you to join us.
careers
RAPS is an inspiring place to build a career with purpose. We welcome compassionate, driven team members committed to improving the lives of animals and advancing our no-kill promise. Explore opportunities across a wide range of meaningful roles.
DONATIONS
However you choose to give — time, talent, or financial support — you help move our mission forward. Your generosity sustains our no-kill promise and creates brighter futures for animals in need. Everyone can make a powerful difference.
IN-KIND DONATIONS
Corporate and community partners play a vital role in helping RAPS advance our mission to save and improve the lives of animals. Much of what we accomplish is made possible through generous gifts-in-kind from manufacturers, retailers, and tradespeople.
planned giving
Planned giving — including leaving a gift in your will — ensures the values you champion in life continue to make a difference after you’re gone. Creating a legacy is one of the most meaningful ways you can help RAPS care for animals … and their people.
tax receipts
Need to check the status of a tax receipt, request a replacement, or update your contact details? We’re here to help. For any administrative questions connected to your support of RAPS, this is the place to start.
ANIMAL WELFARE ADVOCACY
Advocating for animals — and their people
RAPS is a direct, hands-on animal-serving agency. But protecting animals sometimes means stepping beyond direct care to change the legal, regulatory, and social systems that shape their lives … and the lives of the people who love them.
Advocacy has become an essential part of our mission. We raise our voices for those who cannot speak and work to drive lasting, systemic change that improves life for animals and the communities who stand with them.
CHECK OUT THE NEWS, INFO, AND STORIES ON OUR BLOG
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Free $100 eGift Card
for Every Pet
New to RAPS? Receive a $100 eGift Card for each pet you bring in – up to 5 pets, a $500 value – to put toward their care. Our welcome to your family.
New clients only. Terms apply.
