A local animal rescue in Skiatook is calling on the community for help as it reaches maximum capacity for animals in its care.
Skiatook Paws and Claws Animal Rescue (SPACAR) announced a pop-up fostering event to move animals out of boarding facilities and into temporary homes, allowing the organization to continue accepting new animals in need.
Shelter at Maximum Capacity
According to SPACAR President Paige Bodden, the rescue has reached its limit for both dogs and cats.
“We have basically reached our max amount of dogs that we can house in boarding and cats,” Bodden said, explaining that the organization must now move animals into foster homes to free up space.
Without additional fosters, the shelter faces an intake hold, meaning it cannot accept new animals. This situation impacts not only the organization but also surrounding communities that rely on SPACAR for animal rescue support.
Why Fostering Is Critical Right Now
SPACAR is a no-kill organization, meaning the animals currently in their care are not at risk of euthanasia. However, the inability to take in more animals creates a serious challenge.
Bodden emphasized that maintaining a steady intake is essential to helping as many animals as possible.
If the shelter cannot create space:
- New animals in need may go without care
- Local rescue efforts slow down
- Community resources become strained
Fostering helps solve this by temporarily relocating animals into homes, opening space for new rescues.
Fostering Made Simple for Volunteers
Bodden encouraged community members to consider fostering, noting that the process is easier than many people expect.
SPACAR provides:
- Veterinary care
- Food and supplies
- Ongoing support
Fosters are simply asked to provide a safe, caring environment until the animal is adopted.
“All that you’re providing is a place for the animal to stay, love and support,” Bodden said.
Adoption Opportunities Also Available
While the event is focused on fostering, SPACAR is also welcoming potential adopters.
The rescue currently has a wide range of animals available, including:
- Puppies and adult dogs
- Kittens and adult cats
- Small and large breeds
- Purebred and mixed-breed animals
According to Bodden, there is likely a match for nearly any household looking to adopt a pet.
Event Details and Shelter Hours
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | Pop-up fostering event |
| Location | SPACAR headquarters, Skiatook |
| Date | Monday |
| Time | 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Regular Hours | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Mon–Sat) |
| Sunday Hours | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
For those unable to attend the event, the shelter remains open during regular hours for fostering and adoption inquiries.
The situation at Skiatook Paws and Claws highlights a common challenge faced by animal rescues: limited space and growing demand. While the animals currently in care are safe, the inability to take in more could affect future rescue efforts.
By fostering or adopting, community members can play a direct role in helping the organization continue its mission and ensure more animals receive care and a chance at a permanent home.
