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The Oklahoma City Animal Welfare (OKCAW) Shelter is currently at maximum capacity for dogs and cats, prompting a call to action for the community to help address this pressing issue.

Since the beginning of the month, the Shelter has achieved remarkable success, finding forever homes for 444 pets and transferring 517 to partner shelters. However, despite these efforts, the influx of animals remains staggering. During this same period, 1,057 dogs, 707 cats and 316 other critters have arrived at our doors.

“The numbers speak for themselves, but so does our determination,” OKC Animal Welfare Superintendent Jon Gary said. “Together, we can tackle this issue head-on and ensure every pet finds its place in a loving family.”

The Animal Welfare staff is working to manage the situation. Initiatives such as organizing external events, waiving adoption fees for canines and encouraging foster care aim to alleviate the strain on the Shelter. However, we need the community's support to find a sustainable solution.

Here's how individuals can contribute:

1. Reunite Strays: If you encounter a healthy, happy stray, try reuniting them with their owner before bringing them to the shelter.
2. Care for Young Animals: If you find healthy kittens or puppies, attempt to locate their mother before considering shelter care. Baby animals have a higher chance of survival with their parents, as they are not eligible for adoption until old enough for spaying or neutering.
3. Check the Shelter: If you've lost a pet, visit our Shelter—sometimes even microchips fail. Ensure your pets wear collars and tags. You can obtain a free personalized tag at OKCAW.
4. Adopt. Don't Shop: Consider adopting from OKCAW. Our animals come microchipped, spayed/neutered, and vaccinated, ready to join your family. All dog adoption fees are waived for the month of June. Adoption fees for cats six months and older will be waived, while kitten (under six months) adoption fees are $30. If long-term adoption isn't feasible, become a foster to provide temporary care.
5. Spread Awareness: Even if you can't take an animal home, you can still help. Visit the Shelter to take pictures of pets for social media or obtain brochures to educate others about the benefits of adoption.

“With the community's involvement, we can turn this challenge into an opportunity to find homes for every animal in need,” Gary said.

To become part of the solution, visit okc.gov/departments/animal-welfare/get-involved. The Shelter, located at 2811 SE 29th St., is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with pet visits and adoptions starting at noon.

Together, let's make a difference in the lives of these animals in need.

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Media Contact:

Jazmin Yim

jazmin.yim@okc.gov

405-546-9002

About Oklahoma City Animal Welfare:

The Oklahoma City Animal Welfare's mission is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of pets and people in OKC.