Tulsa Animal Services launches senior dog adoption program to combat loneliness among seniors

The Tulsa Animal Welfare Commission convened on January 13, 2025, to discuss pressing issues surrounding animal care and community engagement. A significant focus of the meeting was the need for targeted programs to assist senior citizens in adopting senior dogs, addressing both the loneliness experienced by the elderly and the challenges of placing older dogs in homes. While the commission had not previously considered this specific approach, members acknowledged its potential benefits and expressed interest in developing such initiatives.

The discussion highlighted the current demographics of animals in shelters, revealing that the majority of intake consists of younger dogs, particularly those aged 1 to 4 years. This age group, often referred to as "teenagers," presents unique challenges in terms of adoption due to their energetic behavior. The commission noted that while they have made progress in placing these dogs, the high percentage of pit bulls—estimated between 80% and 85%—remains a significant hurdle, especially given the breed-specific legislation in various states that complicates out-of-state adoptions.

Another key topic was the commission's efforts to improve community outreach and education regarding responsible pet ownership. Members discussed the importance of informing potential adopters about the realities of dog behavior, particularly for younger dogs that may require additional training and patience. The commission is also planning to implement an intake assessment process to better evaluate the adoptability of incoming animals, which could streamline the adoption process.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to enhance community engagement, emphasizing that the welfare of animals is intrinsically linked to the well-being of their owners. The commission aims to provide resources to pet owners, ensuring they have the support needed to keep their pets healthy and happy. As the commission looks forward to the anticipated opening of a new shelter in the coming years, they remain focused on building relationships within the community to foster a culture of care for both animals and their human companions.