we need your voice
say yes to choice, no to city ban
here are some examples of what what our
supporters have been writing to the city...
" ... The Top Dog Store provided us a very valued, ethical service. Had they not existed or puppies were not sold in Calgary, I don't know how long we might have suffered mentally before we could have found a new fuzzy buddy. We loved have the freedom and option to get Ted that day ..."
" ... Our experience in adopting was exceptional. We felt the staff was very supportive and had the dogs best interests to heart. We have continued to visit the store for supplies and have always noted the care given to the puppies. We fully support Top Dog ..."
" ... I feel that new pet owners should have the freedom to select a pet that complements the needs and way of life of my family. The Top Dog Store offers a morally and safely responsible method of finding a pet, and that choice ought to be maintained ..."
Dear Top Dog Family,
At The Top Dog Store, we are proud and humbled that you’ve trusted us with one of life’s biggest decisions—bringing a new puppy into your family. Thank you for choosing us and letting us be part of your joyful dog story.
We are deeply touched and incredibly grateful for the nearly 100 heartfelt letters of support we’ve already received. Your stories of how a Top Dog puppy has brought love, laughter, healing, and connection into your lives have moved us beyond words. Many of you shared how your puppy became a best friend, a source of emotional support, or a beloved part of your children’s memories. Some of you now have two or even three Top Dog puppies—proof of just how deeply that bond runs.
You also echoed something important: having the freedom to choose where to find a puppy matters. Many of you pointed out how limited the options are for small breed puppies, and how The Top Dog Store stood out as a trustworthy, ethical, and loving place to begin that journey. We’re honoured to live up to that trust.
Update on the Proposed Ban
As many of you know, Calgary City Council is considering a ban on the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in stores—believing it will reduce pet surrenders.
While we support the goal of animal welfare, this ban misses the mark entirely. The vast majority of surrenders are due to life changes, behavioural challenges, or lack of training support—not because of where the pet was purchased.
What the ban will do is remove access to reputable, ethical breeders and eliminate a trusted, transparent option for families who want a life-long companion. At Top Dog, our puppies come from small, veterinary-inspected breeders who provide exceptional care. Taking away this option risks pushing families toward unregulated or online sellers—where the risks are far greater.
We’ve been informed that the City’s Community Development Committee will provide an update on this issue on June 2. In the meantime, we need your voice more than ever.
Thank you for standing with us. Thank you for speaking up. Together, we can protect the right to choose, share the love our puppies bring, and continue making a positive difference in people’s lives.
With gratitude,
The Top Dog Team
Here’s How You Can Help
Send a letter of support directly to City Council at Council@calgary.ca
Please cc us at topdogtoyou@gmail.com so we can keep track of all the incredible community voices speaking up
You can write your own message or include some of the points below:
-
I believe in the right to choose a pet that fits my family’s needs and lifestyle.
-
The Top Dog Store provides a safe, ethical way to find a pet—and that option should remain available.
-
My experience with The Top Dog Store was exceptional. My puppy was not an impulse buy and is healthy, happy, and well-adjusted.
-
Families in Calgary deserve options when choosing to welcome a new pet into their home.