Tulsa Animal Services reports higher save rate, urges spay‑and‑neuter to reduce shelter intake

Tulsa Animal Services said its save rate rose from about 67% in 2018 to nearly 80% today, crediting adoptions, foster care and spay‑and‑neuter work.

The increase, the agency said, reflects expanded community support and operations at the municipal shelter. “Every single day, our team is here taking in lost, abandoned and injured animals, giving them the care they need, and working hard to find safe and loving homes,” said Sherry Carrier, director of Tulsa Animal Services.

Carrier and other speakers stressed spay and neuter as a major tool to prevent unwanted litters and reduce pressure on shelters. The city presentation said Tulsa Animal Services took in “over 7,000 stray animals” last year and noted a municipal ordinance requiring animals over 6 months to be spayed or neutered unless a permit applies.

Speakers described outreach efforts that aim to help pet owners keep animals — including providing food, tie‑outs, and other basic resources — so pets do not end up in the shelter due to hardship. The shelter also noted low‑cost sterilization options available locally through Spay Oklahoma, Tulsa SPCA and other providers.

Shelter officials framed the work as both animal welfare and community support: educating residents about responsible pet ownership, increasing adoptions and transfers, and making resources available to owners who want to keep pets but lack means.

Officials encouraged residents to consult Tulsa Animal Services materials and the agency’s website for details on services and low‑cost clinics.