One Oklahoma Animal Shelter On The List For National Grant

Out of 40 different shelters across the United States, only one of Oklahoma's many animal shelters received a grant from two of the largest companies in the animal healthcare industry. Although only one shelter got this grant, there are still several ways that you can help Oklahoma's shelter pets.

Stillwater Animal Shelter The Only Oklahoma Shelter To Receive Grant

Recently, the list of winners for the Zoetis 2024 Grant Program were released. This grant donated $2 million of pet products to various shelters throughout the country. The products from Zoetis were meant to help shelters care for animals before they were adopted, like flea, tick and heartworm preventatives.

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The Humane Society of Stillwater was the only Oklahoma location on the entire list. According to Adoptapet, the grant winners were selected based on the shelters who went "above and beyond in their communities" to get animals adopted. It makes sense that Stillwater's location was recognized, since their successful adoption rate was one of the highest, at 41% in 2020.

 

 

 

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It's still incredulous to think that only one of Oklahoma's locations was on this list, considering the fact that there are 335 animal shelters and animal welfare organizations in the entire state. This could only mean that we need more help from Oklahoma's communities.

For The Rest Of The Shelters, How Can You Help?

Oklahomans with or without money can help animal shelters not only care for the animals waiting to be adopted, but also get them into their new homes. Athena from the local group Fishy's Friends Rescue mentioned a variety of ways you can get involved.

"Whether you have extra funds to give or are looking for meaningful ways to help without spending a dime, there's a way for everyone to support our mission of saving homeless dogs."

-Athena, Fishy's Friends Rescue Founder

A few ways you can help a local rescue are:

• Share posts and interact online. Even telling your friends and family helps get the word out.
• Volunteer your time by offering to help with adoption events or at a local shelter. You don't have to go all of the time, but this season is one of the most difficult for shelter animals.
• Become a foster, give a pup a temporary loving home. Your care and attention goes a long way to helping them become an even better adoption fit.
• Sign up for fundraising apps. Athena recommends to add Fishy's as a chosen nonprofit on the Walmart Round up Fund. "Every small purchase makes a big difference," she said.

Winter's Coming and Shelters Need Donations, Not Just Funds

During the winter, many shelters struggle with keeping pets warm and comfortable in Oklahoma. A few items that could really help animals stay comfortable while waiting to be adopted are:

• blankets
• bowls
• cots
• chew toys
• dog sweaters
• dog food

You can also organize your own local fundraiser, such as a giving tree for pets in need, suggested by Marcia Cronk from the Comanche County Pet Resource Foundation. "You can offer to foster a pet during the holidays through local rescue groups, sponsor a holiday program like the one we are currently running for the homeless - lots of ideas!"

If you or someone you know has these items, reach out to a local shelter in your community to donate. And while dropping these items off, visit with the animals. You never know who you'll meet.