Oklahoma Representative Mickey Dollens from Oklahoma City has recently proposed a new bill that could help resolve Oklahoma's overpopulation problem. This bill also acts as a step towards saving animals from euthanasia in Oklahoma's animal shelters.

House bill 1046 proposes a grant program through the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry that will offer free spays and neuters to local municipalities, who would then work with local veterinarians, according to Representative Dollens.

How House Bill 1046 Will Help Save Animals in Oklahoma

Overpopulation
Danielle Carson
loading...

Ideally, less litters that are born mean less animals to add to the current population in Oklahoma. This means animals that are in need of a home now will have a better chance of being adopted. And if they're adopted, then shelters aren't constantly at capacity; therefore, they won't need to euthanize animals.

As of 2020, 38.7 percent of the 119 Oklahoma shelters were no-kill, according to the Ada News. But, constant overpopulation contributes to the reason most shelters euthanize - they have to make space to take in more.

What's Up Next For House Bill 1046

Rosa
Sunflower Snapshots
loading...

The bill's first reading is set for Monday, Feb. 3, 2025. If Oklahoma State Legislature passes the bill, it will become effective July 1, 2026. You can read the bill in its entirety here.

If you're interested in adopting an animal, or even fostering, you're encouraged to reach out to your local rescues to see what animals they have available. Take a look below at some adoptable animals from Fishy's Friends Rescue, who specifically rescues strays.

Adoptable Pets in Oklahoma at Fishy's Friends Rescue

This Saturday, January 11, Fish't Friends will be hosting an adoption event at Petco in Lawton. These are the adoptable pets they have available, as if January 6.

Gallery Credit: Dani

Top 5 Most Stolen Breeds of Dogs in Oklahoma

Puppies in general are more likely to be stolen than adult dogs. But if you have a puppy of these breeds, you should be careful not to leave them alone.

Gallery Credit: Dani

More From 1073 Popcrush