At least 500 animals, including exotic and domestic birds, dogs, cats, reptiles and a horse, were part of what Oklahoma City officials said could be its largest animal seizure yet. The shelter was evaluating the animals as of Friday morning.
The animals were found during a drug bust. Police and officials from the Federal Bureau of Investigation seized 30 pounds of methamphetamine at the home. Shelter staff worked overnight to transport the animals, which were mainly birds.
The city has temporarily stopped accepting animals until after Tuesday and is working with rescue organizations to help with capacity.
“This situation is heartbreaking,” Johny Sandoval, shelter superintendent, said in a release.
City spokesperson Kristy Yager said the shelter has the budget to feed the new animals.
The animal shelter was already out of kennel space as of Wednesday. The facility was housing at least 126 adoptable pets before Thursday’s rescue.
Adoptions are still open at the rescue during the intake pause. Through July 3, residents can choose their own adoption fees for dogs.
The shelter is open for adoptions Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. The department said its adoptable dogs are vaccinated, spayed or neutered, microchipped and tested or treated for heartworms.
“The shelter is desperate to find loving homes for our dog and cat population so we can make room and care for all the new animals we took in last night,” Sandoval said in the release.
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