Chaining dogs outdoors remains a widespread issue across Oklahoma, leaving animals vulnerable to harsh conditions and neglect.

 

Unchain OK, a program under the Oklahoma Alliance for Animals, is tackling this challenge by educating owners and providing alternatives to chaining.

 

Prolonged restraint can cause dogs severe physical and psychological harm, including injuries, illness, anxiety, and aggression.

 

Chained dogs also face a higher risk of bite incidents, particularly unneutered males and mothers.

 

To combat these risks, Unchain OK offers support such as doghouses, bedding, food, and fence repairs, while advocating for responsible ownership practices, including spaying and neutering to control overpopulation.

 

The program stresses that integrating dogs into family life—not isolation on chains—is crucial for both safety and wellbeing.

 

Oklahomans are encouraged to seek help, volunteer, or donate to help end the cycle of chained dog suffering.

Oklahoma is making major progress toward achieving no-kill status in its animal shelters, reaching a 77% save rate for cats and dogs in 2024.

 

Of the state’s 104 shelters, nearly half have already hit the 90% benchmark, and dozens more are close behind.

 

Best Friends Animal Society plays a crucial role, helping local shelters like Ketcher/Keheley Animal Shelter in Miami reach a 98% cat save rate through targeted programs and grants.

 

Community partners, such as local businesses, are actively involved in supporting spay/neuter efforts and caring for community cats.

 

Oklahoma City Animal Welfare (OKCAW) responded to overpopulation with a revised intake policy and secured City Council approval for a new, larger shelter to open in 2025.

 

This combination of strategic policy shifts, community engagement, and infrastructure investment is positioning Oklahoma to become a leader in the national no-kill movement.