I was lucky enough to find my loyal companion in a shelter—a courageous service dog who has transformed my life in unimaginable ways. Thinking about her fate if a laboratory had claimed her chills me to the bone, and that is why I feel compelled to act now. In Oklahoma, HB 4-394 mandates that municipal shelters must surrender surplus animals to research and testing labs unless there is a specific ordinance or statute stating otherwise. Dishearteningly, Tulsa, and most of Oklahoma, lacks such a protective ordinance, leaving innocent and voiceless animals at risk of exploitation. The morality of testing on animals is not only ethically questionable but utterly unjust. Consider that the medications, procedures, and formulations these animals are subjected to under abusive conditions are supposed to safely transition for human use. Innovative research methods like in vitro testing and computer modeling now offer more reliable and humane alternatives without jeopardizing animal welfare. Furthermore, we must recognize the prevalence and availability of clinical trials that provide adults the opportunity to make informed decisions about their participation in research studies, with many offering financial incentives. Humans can consent and are afforded the autonomy to participate—animals do not have this privilege. The current legal framework fails to protect these innocent beings who find themselves at the mercy of testing labs. This is a call to action for Tulsa, and all other cities lacking one, to establish an ordinance that exempts its municipal shelters from handing over surplus animals to such facilities. By doing this, we set a laudable precedent and send a strong message that Okkahoma values compassion over cruelty, safeguarding the animals who may otherwise face dire futures. I urge every compassionate individual, especially fellow Oklahomans who love and respect animals, to join me in making a stand. Let's petition the relevant authorities to draft and implement a policy that firmly fires a shot against animal testing, protecting Tulsa's and other cities, shelter animals from becoming subjects of research. By signing this petition, you are taking an essential step towards transforming Oklahoma into a state where kindness, modern ethics, and the respect for life prevail. Sign now to make your voice heard.