I have always believed that shelters are meant to be a place of refuge, protection, and care for innocent animals. Unfortunately, this is far from reality in our local shelter in Enid, OK. Countless stories have reached me about unjust acts of cruelty carried out in this place—stories about animals being euthanized through horrendous means, or killed simply because it was the will of an employee. Heartbreaking accounts have been shared about lost companions, needlessly taken away by these acts of unnecessary violence. Acts of wanton cruelty and unnecessary deaths of innocent lives are not just heartbreaking, but a dark stain on our community. Tragically, many of these deaths are even being carried out before the mandated 5-day stray hold has expired. It's not just about breaking the rules - it's about dishonoring our responsibility to protect these helpless creatures.

 These instances are nothing short of heartbreaking and are a brutal reminder that our shelter is in need of serious reform.

There are clear changes that are urgently needed, such as ensuring that all acts of cruelty and neglect toward animals are stopped. One critical measure is to honor, or ideally, extend the 5-day stray hold to prevent unfair deaths of these innocent creatures. a complete overhaul is needed in the employment and management. Alongside the staffing changes, there's an urgent need for increased funding and the installation of surveillance cameras in kennels. These measures will enforce transparency and prevent needless cruelty. Cleanliness in these establishments is another concern that needs immediate attention for the health and well- being of the animals.

Emphasizing on the strict enforcement of the spay and neuter laws is vital. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), a pair of breeding cats and their offspring could feasibly add 420,000 cats to the population in seven years if not sterilized. Enid, like any other city, can't afford such an explosion in stray population, it would only lead to more needless deaths.

Along side we need the dumping laws in Enid to be enforced. 2023 Oklahoma Statutes Title 21. Crimes and Punishments §21-1691. Abandoning of domestic animals along streets or highways or in any public place prohibited. "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." Investigations need to start happening to hold the owners accountable for the cruel act of abandonment. 

These changes are crucial to provide these innocent animals the care and dignity they deserve. The animals in our communities need a voice. We cannot stand idle while they suffer. Lend your voice to protect the members of our furry family and join our fight for a comprehensive reform in our animal welfare practices. Sign this petition and let us demand justice and humane treatment for all animals in Enid, OK. If you want to follow and help with more steps to end this cruelty follow us on Facebook @ Let their voices be heard