Skiatook Paws and Claws Animal Rescue (SPACAR) in Oklahoma has temporarily stopped accepting new dogs, citing a severe lack of space caused by a significant drop in adoptions. The organization has issued an urgent public appeal for adopters, foster families, volunteers, and donations to manage the crisis.
The rescue center is currently operating at full capacity, with many dogs remaining in their care for several months without finding new homes. To address the situation, SPACAR is holding a special adoption event this weekend to encourage community support and find permanent homes for the animals.
Key Takeaways
- Skiatook Paws and Claws Animal Rescue (SPACAR) has paused all new dog intakes due to overcrowding.
- The facility is full because of a "dramatic decrease in adoptions" over the past several months.
- The rescue is urgently seeking adopters, foster homes (both temporary and permanent), volunteers, and financial donations.
- A special adoption event with a reduced fee of $50 will be held on Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
A Shelter at Capacity
Officials at Skiatook Paws and Claws Animal Rescue announced the difficult decision to suspend intake through a social media statement. The organization explained that the flow of adoptions has slowed to a near halt, creating a bottleneck that prevents them from helping more animals in need.
"We have seen a very dramatic decrease in adoptions in the last few months," the organization stated. "We are used to at least one or two boarding dogs leaving every few weeks, and all of them have sat not moving for 8-12 weeks now. This opens up NO space for dogs in need."
This prolonged length of stay for resident dogs means that kennels are not becoming available. The situation has placed immense pressure on the rescue's resources, staff, and the well-being of the animals currently in their care.
The National Trend of Overcrowded Shelters
Animal shelters across the United States have reported similar challenges in recent years. Factors contributing to overcrowding include economic inflation impacting pet owners, a slowdown in post-pandemic adoption rates, and shortages in veterinary staff. Many non-profit rescues like SPACAR rely heavily on community support to continue their operations.
Urgent Need for Adopters and Fosters
The most immediate solution to the overcrowding issue is finding homes for the dogs. To facilitate this, SPACAR is hosting a special adoption event this upcoming Sunday. The rescue hopes the reduced fee will motivate prospective pet owners to act.
$50 Adoption Special This Sunday
The organization will hold walk-in adoptions on Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at their facility. During this event, the adoption fee for all available dogs will be reduced to $50. According to SPACAR, individuals who are approved through the application process may be able to take their new pet home on the same day.
Event Details:
What: $50 Walk-In Adoption Event
When: Sunday, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Where: 4605 West Rogers Boulevard, Skiatook, OK 74070
Fostering Provides Critical Relief
In addition to permanent adoptions, SPACAR is in desperate need of foster families. Fostering provides a temporary home for a dog, freeing up crucial kennel space at the shelter. This allows the rescue to potentially help other animals in urgent situations.
The organization emphasizes that even short-term commitments can make a significant difference. "Even fostering for a single week from this Sunday to next would be a major help for the rescue," the statement noted. Both temporary and long-term foster homes are needed.
Staff and Volunteer Shortages Add to Strain
The crisis extends beyond physical space. SPACAR reported that its team is facing burnout due to a shortage of volunteers. The daily tasks required to care for the animals are demanding and constant.
"Our team is tired. Despite having hired new kennel techs, our managers are having to beg volunteers to fill the shift holes every single day," the rescue explained. "Dogs have to be cared for 24/7/365."
The rescue needs help in two key areas:
- Care Teams: Volunteers are needed for essential tasks like cleaning kennels, administering medication, and feeding the dogs.
- Enrichment Teams: These volunteers focus on the animals' well-being by taking them for walks and providing playtime in the yard.
This hands-on support is vital for maintaining the health and happiness of the dogs while they wait for their forever homes.
How You Can Help SPACAR
SPACAR has outlined several ways the public can contribute during this critical time. Community support in any form can help alleviate the pressure on the organization and ensure the animals receive the care they need.
Ways to Contribute:
- Adopt a Dog: Visit the shelter during the Sunday event or submit an online adoption application.
- Become a Foster: Offer a temporary home by filling out a foster application.
- Volunteer Your Time: Help with daily care and animal enrichment by emailing [email protected].
- Donate Funds: Financial contributions are essential for food, medicine, housing, and staff salaries.
The organization has provided multiple channels for financial support and communication:
- Donations: Can be made via PayPal (username @SPACAR), CashApp ($SPACAR), or by mailing a check to PO BOX 1033, Skiatook, OK 74070.
- Contact Information: For general questions, the public can text 918-578-9175 or email [email protected].
The rescue hopes that the community will respond to their appeal and help them navigate this challenging period, ultimately ensuring that every dog in their care finds a safe and loving home.