Ben Madilynn
TULSA, Okla. — The City held a groundbreaking ceremony for Tulsa’s new animal shelter as part of the 918 Day festivities on Tuesday.
The event marks a significant milestone in the City’s commitment to providing a modern, safe and compassionate facility for Tulsa’s homeless pets, the City of Tulsa said.
“Animal welfare has changed drastically over the years, shifting toward a more proactive approach that focuses on community needs,” Mayor G.T. Bynum said. “This new shelter will significantly improve our ability to care for and rehome animals in need while serving as a beacon of hope and compassion for animals and Tulsans alike.”
The new facility is funded through $13.8 million approved by Tulsa residents, according to the City’s announcement. It will “completely revamp the City’s approach to animal care.”
“Thank you to our residents for their continued support and advocacy for the animals in our city,” Council Chair and District 2 City Councilwoman Jeannie Cue said. “The decision to build a brand-new facility in Tulsa reflects our community’s commitment to providing a modern, safe, and efficient facility that meets the evolving needs of our citizens and ensures the well-being of the animals in our care.”
Along with the new shelter, Tulsa Animal Welfare announced the division’s name will be changed to Tulsa Animal Services.
Sherri Carrier, Tulsa Animal Services Shelter Manager, discussed the division’s new name.
“The name Tulsa Animal Services reflects a more holistic approach to caring for animals,” Carrier said. “We are committed to educating the public on the importance of spaying and neutering your pets, promoting responsible pet ownership, and increasing public awareness about animal welfare issues.”
The new animal shelter will be built on 3.5 acres just south of the Tulsa Zoo on 36th Street North and Pawnee Drive, the City said.
The 24,125 square foot space will house a clinic, surgery center, isolation rooms, an adoption area, office space and an outdoor area for animals.
Additionally, it will have more than 300 kennels to accommodate dogs, cats, and other animals, the City said.
Officials were joined in the groundbreaking by Bipple, a special DIGnitary and shelter dog.
(City of Tulsa)
The City said Bipple received special training for the ceremony and is now available for adoption at Tulsa Animal Services.
FOX23 told you in July Tulsa Animal Services is also hopes to raise an additional $3.7 million to expand amenities at the new shelter through the Progress for Paws campaign.
This campaign aims to raise funds for additional features including expanded kennel space, a secure animal intake and an on-site generator for continuous animal care.
In partnership with the Tulsa Community Foundation (TCF), the campaign has raised $317,000 of its $3.7 million goal.
For further details about the Progress for Paws campaign and shelter services, click here.
More architectural renderings of the new Tulsa Animal Services shelter are below:
Rendering for new Tulsa Animal Services shelter (City of Tulsa)
Rendering for new Tulsa Animal Services shelter (City of Tulsa)
