Abandonment

In recent weeks, the Lawton Animal Welfare facility has experienced a concerning increase in animal abandonment cases. These actions are not only illegal under City Ordinance, but also pose serious risks to the health and safety of the animals involved.

Most notably, an incident occurred in which nine (9) cats were left at the shelter, confined in sealed plastic totes without food, water, or adequate ventilation. These animals were discovered by staff on a Monday morning in extremely hot conditions—comparable to being left inside a vehicle on a hot day. While the animals were found alive, they were at serious risk of heat-related injuries or death had they not been found in time.

Abandoning animals at the shelter—whether during or outside of business hours—is a dangerous and unlawful act. Per City Ordinance 5-1-120.B9, it is a misdemeanor offense to abandon or cause the abandonment of any animal. Additionally, under Oklahoma State Statutes Title 21, Section 1685, if an animal suffers severe harm or death as a result, the responsible individual may face felony charges.

Lawton Animal Welfare is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all animals. We will actively pursue the identification of any individuals involved in these acts and will work with law enforcement to seek prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.

We urge the public to act responsibly and contact the shelter directly if they are unable to care for their pets. There are proper, humane avenues for surrendering animals—abandonment is not one of them.

Lawton Animal Welfare