The Tulsa SPCA said it has provided thousands of pounds of food to families in need this year and the shelter is in need of help.
John Weber Mendez and Dash from the Tulsa SPCA joined News on 6 to discuss the growing need for donations to help families and pets.
Kristen: “Let’s talk about the Tulsa SPCA. Obviously you think of animals, but you’re much more than just an animal shelter.”
John: “Yes, what makes us different is that not only do we serve Tulsa’s dogs and cats, we also serve their human companions, helping families keep their pets at home. I think it’s about making sure they have what they need, and helping them live long and happy lives. ”
Kirsten: “It’s interesting to think about getting a dog, wanting that dog or cat to be a part of your life forever, and then thinking about the financial hardships. So that’s your answer here. It’s part of the mission. Tell me about some of your concerns. “You’ve seen the need for food distribution and not just food but other supplies right now. ”
John: “Yes, we see families struggling to decide between feeding their pets, feeding their families, paying their electricity bills, paying their vet bills. We just want them to know that the Tulsa SPCA is here.” To support them with low-cost veterinary services, we run a food distribution program that distributes approximately 25,000 pounds of food each year. We’re running out of food for families in need, and this year we’ve already given out 25,000 pounds before October started. Pounds of food are needed for families in need, and we are short on food. ”
Kristen: “Let’s talk about Dash here, because he has such a detailed story. You know, he found a loving family, but he knew they couldn’t afford food. “Tell me about Dash. He’s just one of many of your animals.”
John: “Yes, Dash is a long-time resident of the Tulsa SPCA. He was rescued and brought back. He has a family and they are struggling to support him and they are struggling financially. And unfortunately we had to turn him in. We really wanted to find a forever home for Dash. But we also want to make sure that families in need have enough food to keep their pets.”
Kristen: “That’s great. Tell me about some opportunities. Do you need volunteers? What else do you need at the SPCA?”
John: “Yes, absolutely. We always need food donations, but people can go to our website www.tulsaspca.org and donate through our website. And, you know, dogs like Dasdo spend a lot of their own money, and they spend a little bit of time in the kennel, so volunteers come and play with them a little bit and give them a sense of fulfillment. I need you to give it to me.”
Kristen: “I love it. I mean, look at him, he’s just having a good time. Dash is up for adoption.”
John: “Dash is now available for adoption, vaccinated, and cleared of any illnesses. He’s ready to go.”
Kristen: “Is there anything else you would like people to know about your mission?”
John: “That’s so important. Serving animals is serving people. So if people support us or adopt a dog or cat and give them a forever home, Anything we can do to help has a huge impact on our community.”
If you would like to donate or visit, please visit the SPCA at 2910 Mohawk Blvd. The SPCA is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on Wednesdays. To volunteer or donate, visit tulsaspca.org.