TULSA, Okla. (KTUL) — The Tulsa Day Center broke ground on a first-of-its-kind animal shelter on Friday, May 31.
The Tulsa Day Center Animal Shelter will be the first low-barrier shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness that provides a shelter for owners and their animals within in the city of Tulsa.
Currently, those experiencing homelessness with animals must either bring their pet in a carrier or remain outside with them. Because of this barrier, individuals experiencing homelessness with pets cannot often seek resources, shelter, and access services without the risk of losing their pet by leaving it outside.
According to the City of Tulsa point in time data, 18% of individuals in the city of Tulsa experiencing homelessness have pets, but cannot reside in a shelter because most shelters can’t accommodate animals
By allowing pets inside and lowering the barrier for folks to access resources, shelter, and services, the facility brings Tulsa one step closer to the goal of “making sure every Tulsan has a home.”
The facility will be a 600-square-foot climate-controlled shelter that can accommodate up to 10 animals.
In addition to their room inside, Tulsa Day Center CEO Mack Haltom says the Day Center will be able to accommodate between 15 to 20 pets at a time.
Cats and dogs are welcome to stay at the new shelter, but the CEO says no exotic animals like parrots or snakes are allowed.
The facility is expected to open sometime between September and October.
Until then, they are seeking donations of dog supplies: dog food, treats, leashes, and collars.
