Approximately 7.6 million companion animals enter animal shelters nationwide every year.
Oklahoma ranks 8th in the rate of euthanizing dogs and cats in shelters, according to the Best Friends Animal Society. Last year, nearly 90,000 dogs and cats entered Oklahoma’s shelters and over 11, 560 didn’t make it out alive. That’s why a new organization of concerned citizens are banning together in McIntosh County and the surrounding areas to bring awareness of animal abandonment as they try to help the county in a more “pawsitive” way.
Lori Powell-Fells has recently started a volunteer group, Paws N Claws, and has teamed up with the local newspapers, The McIntosh County Democrat and The Indian Journal to try and make a difference in her county. To date volunteers have helped to rescue and rehome 16 dogs that were either in the Eufaula pound or abandoned in the county.
“We are just getting started and have a lot to learn but we know we can make an impact for these furry companions in our communities,” Powell-Fells said. “Too many are being abandoned and though we can’t save them all, but we can save as many as we can. Our motto, we opt to adopt.”
The law in Oklahoma states “Any person who deposits any live dog, cat, or other domestic animal along any private or public roadway, or in any other private or public place with the intention of abandoning the domestic animal upon conviction, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.”
Currently Paws N Claws rescued three pups that were abandoned at Nichol’s Point. One puppy found her fur-ever home but two, a boy and a girl, are still in need of finding homes. All the pups have been wormed, gotten their first set of shots, and are free of ticks and fleas.
“I’m so thankful we could give these fur babies a second chance. They love to cuddle and play and just need someone to love them fur-ever.”
If interested in either pup please text or call 918-618-3810.
Paws N Claws will be hosting an Abandonment Awareness drive thru from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 13, in front of Lake Life on Main St. in Eufaula. Volunteers will be handing out over 500 pounds of free dogfood and catfood to anyone in need.
“Even if someone wants a bag to keep in their car to help feed or rescue a dumped dog or cat, we hope to help in some small way and any leftover food will be donated to the Eufaula pound.”
Paws N Claws is still taking donations of dog/ cat food and will promote local businesses who donate to the cause.
“We will be planning several more events in the future as we work to bring abandonment awareness to others. If anyone is interested in volunteering or donating food, leashes, collars, pet supplies, please contact me at 918-618-3810 or LaDonna Rhodes at 479-422-4210.”
