More than 100 dogs living on a rural Creek County property near Depew are now on the radar of rescuers, after volunteers with the Oklahoma Alliance for Animals spent Sunday on site trying to get the situation under control.
Working under an agreement with the property owner, the team started pulling out the most vulnerable animals and kicked off a medical care and sterilization effort designed to stop the nonstop litters that have pushed the number of dogs into the triple digits.
The Creek County Sheriff's Office asked the Oklahoma Alliance for Animals to step in, but told the group the conditions did not meet the legal bar for seizing the dogs because many had access to food, water and shelter, according to KTUL. The station first reported on the case in June, after another local rescue sounded the alarm.
In social media updates, Oklahoma Alliance for Animals acknowledged public frustration, writing, "We know some people will feel this isn't happening fast enough," and urging patience as they work with the owner for long-term change. Volunteers reported seeing a clear bond between the dogs and the owner and emphasized that a lack of access to spay and neuter services, not a lack of affection, is what allowed the population to explode.
On-the-ground response
During this first phase, volunteers removed about 10 dogs that needed medical attention or were too young to safely stay outside in the heat. Every dog received Bravecto flea and tick prevention, according to KTUL.
The rescue says the next steps are to spay every female on the property, then follow with neutering the males. Dogs the owner agrees to surrender and that appear adoptable will be evaluated for new homes, while older or semi feral animals are expected to remain on the property.
How to help
The group is asking for donations to help cover veterinary care, transportation and ongoing support. Contributions can be made through the organization's Oklahoma Alliance for Animals donation page.
Details on its programs and giving options are also available on the Oklahoma Alliance for Animals website, and Charity Navigator lists contact information for donors who want to verify the nonprofit before giving.
Legal context
Oklahoma law 21 O.S. A7 1685, as summarized by Animal Law Info, makes it a crime to deprive animals of necessary food, water, shelter or veterinary care. Authorities rely on that standard when deciding whether they can legally remove animals, which is why deputies told the rescue that the presence of food and shelter complicated any immediate seizure.
Why spay and neuter matters
The Oklahoma Alliance for Animals runs programs such as Unchain OK and low-cost spay and neuter vouchers to cut down on unwanted litters and reduce shelter intake, an approach local outlets have spotlighted. KJRH has reported on Unchain OK's work to keep outdoor pets safe while encouraging owners to have their animals altered to prevent future overpopulation.
The rescue plans to return in the coming weeks to continue sterilizations and follow-up care. Residents can watch for updates on the group's website and social media channels, while Creek County deputies say they will keep monitoring the property as the joint effort moves forward.
