By Fox23.com News Team
Community Animal Shelters Unite for adoption Event in skiatook
Skiatook, Oklahoma — This Saturday, six local animal shelters will join forces for a special adoption event called “Clear the Shelters,” where all fees will be waived. However, officials are urging potential adopters to remember that bringing a pet into their home is a long-term commitment.
Event Details and Location
The event is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.at Skiatook Paws and Claws, located at 4605 W C Rogers Blvd in Skiatook.
Participating Shelters and Current situation
The participating organizations include Collinsville, Catoosa, Skiatook, Nowata, Hominy, and Fairfax animal Control. Amber Smith,an animal services officer from Collinsville,highlighted the unfortunate reality that local shelters are currently overcrowded.
A Growing Need for Adoptions
At present, Collinsville Animal Services is caring for 18 dogs—among them a mother with eight puppies. Smith noted that some of these dogs have been in the shelter for over 50 days and are beginning to show signs of stress due to lack of human interaction.
“It’s essential to understand that both dogs and cats require lifelong care,” said Smith. “Veterinary expenses can arise unexpectedly; it’s crucial to be prepared for emergencies.”
The Adjustment Period After Adoption
Smith emphasized the importance of patience during the adjustment period after adopting a pet.It can take anywhere from three weeks up to six months for animals to acclimate fully to their new surroundings.She cautioned against expecting immediate perfection from newly adopted pets.
“You won’t just bring home this dog expecting it to behave exactly as you envision,” she explained. “There might potentially be some quirks you’ll need time to work through.”
Submission Process Despite Waived Fees
While adoption fees will not apply during this event, shelter staff will still conduct application reviews and background checks ensuring pets go only into responsible homes.They will verify that any existing pets owned by applicants are current on rabies vaccinations and have been spayed or neutered.
The Benefits of Adopting Over Buying
Smith encouraged prospective pet owners to consider adopting rather then purchasing from breeders due primarily to cost-effectiveness; typically in Collinsville’s case—a $90 adoption fee includes spaying/neutering services along with vaccinations and deworming treatments—services which could otherwise total around $300 if sought individually through veterinary clinics.
“Getting all necesary vaccines included in an adoption fee like this is an incredible value,” Smith remarked. “Manny people underestimate what goes into caring properly for puppies or adult dogs regarding essential vaccinations that considerably enhance their quality of life.”
Your Next Steps: How To Adopt or foster Pets
If you’re interested in viewing available dogs up for adoption or would like more details about cats needing homes as well visit Collinsville Animal Services’ adoption page:
here.
For those who cannot adopt but wish rather foster animals temporarily until they find permanent homes can access dog foster applications
here, while cat fostering options can be found
here.
If you’re unable attend but want support efforts financially consider sponsoring an adoption fee via PayPal at PayPal.me/SPACAR; CashApp using $SPACAR; Venmo @SPACAR; or mailing donations directly addressed P.O Box 1033,Skiatook OK74070 .
If you need further assistance please reach out directly via email contact with Collinsville Animal Services at
pets@cityofcollinsville.com .
