Rain Forces Evacuation Of Washington County SPCA

The Washington County SPCA had to evacuate its animals Tuesday morning, May 21, due to flooding.

The facility is located near the Caney River which has often flooded its banks, according to Shelter Manager Tonya Pete. So, they have a well-worn evacuation plan for the animals.

“All the animals are safe, and that’s the most important thing,”  Pete said in a news release.

Monday night they had to activate it again when County Emergency Management personnel notified them the Caney River was rising and they’d soon lose the opportunity to get the animals out.

“We only had a couple of hours to rally the troops,” said Pete. “I’m not sure exactly what the damage to the building, our supplies, and equipment will end up being,” said Pete.

The shelter was housing 125 animals. The Humane Society of Tulsa took 35 dogs, and the shelter is seeking foster homes for the adoptable cats.

The USGS reports the Caney River and Coon Creek North of Bartlesville still rising, so it may be a few days. The shelter has a long term plan to move to a less flood-prone area and fundraising has begun.

There is a website for those who’d like to help.

News On 6 received several messages from people concerned about horses trapped near the Bartlesville Tag office. We have been told they were rescued.

Related Story: Flooding Expected In Caney River Valley, Bird Creek Areas