Oklahoma's Journey Toward No-Kill Animal Shelters Gains Momentum

Oklahoma is making significant strides toward achieving no-kill status in its animal shelters, thanks to a combination of community-driven programs and strategic policy adjustments.

In 2024, the state reported a 77% save rate for cats and dogs in shelters, indicating substantial progress toward the 90% benchmark that defines no-kill status.

Of the 104 shelters across Oklahoma, 49 have already reached or maintained this goal, while an additional 39 are fewer than 100 animals away from achieving it.

Best Friends Animal Society, a leading national animal welfare organization, has been instrumental in this progress.

Through partnerships and support, they have helped shelters implement effective community cat programs and other lifesaving initiatives.

For instance, the Ketcher/Keheley Animal Shelter in Miami, Oklahoma, fine-tuned its operations with assistance from Best Friends, resulting in a 98% save rate for cats in 2024.

Manager Maycee Goza emphasized the importance of community involvement, noting that local businesses like Nott’s Grocery and Deli have played a crucial role by caring for community cats and supporting spay/neuter efforts.

Similarly, in Walker, Louisiana, the local animal shelter faced challenges with over 80 community cats in a three-block area.

With a $6,000 grant from Best Friends, the shelter implemented a comprehensive community cat program, leading to a cat save rate exceeding 90% by January 2024.

Supervisor Mary Gray highlighted the program's success in building stronger relationships with the community and significantly reducing the number of new cats entering the area.

In Texas, the City of Castroville Animal Control launched a community cat program with support from Best Friends, resulting in a cat save rate averaging 98% for all of 2024.

Despite having a small staff with no prior shelter experience, the program's success underscores the impact of dedicated planning and community engagement.

Back in Oklahoma, the Oklahoma City Animal Welfare (OKCAW) Shelter has been proactive in managing overpopulation.

In June 2024, OKCAW implemented a revised intake policy, limiting daily intake to 30 dogs and 30 cats to address overcrowding and reduce the need for euthanasia.

Superintendent Jon Gary stated, "We are committed to the welfare of all animals in our care. This decision underscores our dedication to finding sustainable solutions and maintaining high standards of care."

Additionally, Oklahoma City Council approved plans for a new, modern animal shelter as part of the MAPS 4 initiative.

The 69,602-square-foot facility will replace the current OKCAW facility, offering enhanced services and significantly expanding capacity.

Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2025, reflecting the city's commitment to improving animal welfare infrastructure.

These collective efforts demonstrate a statewide commitment to achieving no-kill status.

By fostering community involvement, implementing strategic policies, and investing in infrastructure, Oklahoma is on a promising path toward ensuring that every adoptable animal finds a loving home.

As Leah Long, Best Friends South Central region manager, noted, "What these shelters have accomplished in a short period of time is a very strong example of what can be achieved even with limited resources."

With continued collaboration and community support, Oklahoma is poised to become a leader in the no-kill movement.