Alberta animal charities surprised by ‘Pawmobile’ donations

Several Alberta animal rescues got a big boost on Canada Day, thanks to a Calgary utility company.

Sponsor Energy was originally going to give away three “Pawmobiles” -- fully-equipped pink 2026 Jeep Compasses -- to help animal rescue agencies, as part of its “Country for Critters” campaign.

But the company surprised everyone in attendance at a special gathering, by announcing all ten finalists will actually receive a vehicle.

The vehicles will help charities transport rescued animals, deliver supplies, attend emergency calls, and expand their reach.

Sponsor Energy is also splitting more than $250,000 among 57 Alberta animal rescue charities.

“This is not just one animal rescue cause,” said Carolyn Martin, Sponsor Energy CEO.

“There is a massive crisis in Alberta right now,” she said. “Every single animal rescue is full to the brim, underfunded, not enough fosters, and I thought this would be a great opportunity to bring them all together and bring in the corporate world and the general public, to come and help tackle this problem together.”

The event was hosted by Ranchman’s Cookhouse & Dancehall.

It also served as a sendoff for the iconic country-themed saloon, which will move to a yet-to-be announced, new location in 2027.