Oklahoma City Animal Shelter seeks community support to place 60 dogs

Published on July 15, 2025

Oklahoma City Animal Welfare is asking for the community’s help to place 60 dogs this week in order to continue providing quality care to all animals in its custody.

The shelter is currently caring for 762 animals, including 460 dogs. While holding space for adoptable animals supports higher live release rates, it limits the shelter’s ability to respond to public safety concerns, increases the risk of disease transmission, and strains already-limited medical resources.

If space on the adoption floor is not made available through adoptions, owner reclaims or transfers to rescue partners, the shelter may be forced to make difficult decisions due to lack of capacity.

“Our shelter is not designed for long-term housing of animals. We urgently need the community's help to adopt our available dogs so we don't have to make heartbreaking decisions due to limited space,” said Ronnie Schlabs, Animal Welfare superintendent. “Your support can save lives and give these wonderful pets the loving homes they deserve.” 

Community members are encouraged to adopt and help ease overcrowding. Every adoption creates critical space for incoming animals and reduces pressure on limited resources. All adopted dogs are spayed or neutered, microchipped, dewormed, and current on age-appropriate vaccinations—offering new pet owners significant savings on initial veterinary care.

From now through Saturday, July 19, all available dogs will have a reduced adoption fee of $30. Dogs who have been available for two weeks or longer will have their adoption fee waived.

The Oklahoma City Animal Shelter is located at 2811 SE 29th St. and is open for adoptions Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. Pets in foster care are also available for adoption outside regular hours. To view adoptable animals and learn more about how to get involved, visit okc.gov/animalwelfare.

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Media Conatact:

Jazmin Yim

405-297-1061

jazmin.yim@okc.gov