History

 

Spurred by a local case of egregious cruelty, the Washington County Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (WCSPCA) was incorporated in 1965. An animal shelter was built and the new organization undertook projects to educate the public on companion animal issues. In 1974, the WCSPCA contracted to care for animals impounded by the City of Bartlesville. In so doing, the number of animals served increased substantially. 

 

Currently we are comprised of two operations: The City of Bartlesville Impound facility and the WCSPCA Adoption facility.  The impound facility is subsidized by the City of Bartlesville. The Adoption facility and all the community service programs associated with our organization are funded solely by grants and public donations. We are neither a part of, nor supported by, any State or Federal contributions.

 

In the summer of 2007 our shelter was almost completely submerged by floodwaters. After we were over the initial shock of the utter devastation of our facilities, the Board of Directors voted to find higher ground and build a new facility. By early summer of 2008, that perfect location was spotted. It was approximately 10 acres, fronted onto Highway 75 and located in the primary growth area of Bartlesville. Our first goal was complete: we found higher ground.

 

Our second goal was to build an evacuation/clinic building. We accomplished that in the Summer of 2015. We then set out to equip the new building as a low-cost spay/neuter clinic serving the community. By 2016, we had accomplished that goal and are now conducting regular Spay/Neuter Clinics on our shelter animals, and have performed over 1600 to date.

 

We still have one big hurdle to overcome, and that is Phase Three: building a new shelter. Looking to 2019-2020 to launch our capital campaign to reach that goal!