Oklahoma Ranks Top Ten In Number Of Shelter Animals Euthanized

Oklahoma has moved to the top ten in the number dogs and cats euthanized in animal shelters.

The nonprofit group Common Bonds is now working to lower that number and raise the save rate for shelter animals across the state. 

"It's unfortunate to see Oklahoma on the wrong side of any ranking or top ten list that paints our state in a negative light," said Kelly Burley, Common Bonds director. 

Common Bonds is a group aimed at lowering the number of dogs and cats euthanized in shelters. Burley said it's hard to see the numbers rise in the state.  

"Pets are more than just property, they are really family,” Burley said. “Where animals are doing well, families and communities tend to do well.” 

Right now, Oklahoma has a save rate of 73%, meaning 73% of animals are able to leave the shelters. A study from Best Friends Animal Society said the save rate fell 3% from 2018 to 2019. 

Senior Director for national programs Brent Toellner said this is the highest increase in the country. 

"Also, while most of the nation is seeing a decrease of the animals who are losing their lives in shelters, Oklahoma actually saw an increase last year,” Toellner said. “It was actually the highest increase of any state in the country.”

Common Bonds is working with groups across the state, educating them on the numbers and pushing for change. They hope to have the save rate up to 90% in the next few years by 2025.

"It's hard for many of us in this effort to hear that 18,000 Oklahoma cats and dogs didn't make it out of shelters alive,” Burley said. “That represents a big challenge and big opportunity for our coalition, to make what we hope will be a positive difference going forward.”