(Cushing, Okla.) Recently some Cushing citizens voiced their concerns regarding the city’s animal shelter. This week, KUSH was given a tour of the facility and found – that while it may not be a modern one (it was built in the 80s) – it is clean, well kept and very well managed. Our thanks goes to Police Chief Terry Brannon, who – in spite of only receiving a moment’s notice – had no qualms about giving the tour and answering questions. Here is what we learned.
The facility is admittedly small – housing only six dog runs, six cat houses, and supplies such as food, carriers, and trapping cages. Each of the dog runs has a wall-mounted watering dish that is fed by the main water supply. For small breeds or puppies, a watering dish is placed into the run. Food is also provided. Although space is limited, each run allows the dog to be inside or out. A roofed area of each run provides shade on the outside. Inside, an exhaust fan – teamed with an open door – is responsible for the air circulation. There is no air conditioning, however it is heated in the winter. The cat houses had no occupants but were ready – clean food and water bowls, and litter trays were papered.
“It isn’t unusual for the Animal Control Officer – or in some cases myself or another officer – to spend 2 – 2 1/2 hours a day making sure things are clean and the animals cared for,” Brannon said.
Behind the door to the room attached to the main area is where the euthanization of unclaimed or unwanted animals takes place. “That’s not something we enjoy doing,” Brannon said shaking his head, “…the emotional impact…but it’s part of the job.”
Something that came as quite a surprise to KUSH was how little money is actually budgeted for the animal shelter – only $3,000 annually. Just like a frugal household shopper, they check prices and look for the best deals on food, cleaning supplies and even veterinarian care.
“Resource management is very critical for our operation,” Brannon said. “It is imperative that we operate within our means – functionally and effectively.”
Of course, not everything pertaining to the shelter is paid for out of that $3,000. The Animal Control Officer (ACO) salary ($43,989.81- including benefits) and the ACO pickup are additional expenses and shelter operations (ie: utilities) are absorbed by the public works division.
“We are continuing to make the best of the resources – facilities included – given to us by the Commission,” Brannon continued. “The resources may not seem like much, but to me, the commitment we make daily is better than what some animals in our community enjoy – which does sadden me.”
When asked if there were any future plans to build a new facility – Brannon said it is something he has talked about since assuming the responsibility for animal welfare operations.
“I speak with my boss, Steve Spears, nearly every week about something related to our animal welfare operations. I know first hand that Steve does care about our operations, and has not blindly ignored our department or the need that exists regarding an animal shelter or other animal related issues. For anyone to suggest otherwise does not know his heart or mine.”
Brannon agreed that ultimately animal welfare begins with responsible pet ownership – with spaying and neutering at the top of the list.
“It can’t be the other way around,” Brannon said. “We, as the city, are not in the pet ownership business – with the exception of our police k-9. If owners take responsibility first, then this whole process of animal welfare would flow much smoother.”
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