Oklahoma’s State Pet: What It Is and How To Get One

I recently came across an article of 13 states that had "state dogs." Some states didn't even adopt a breed, like New York who named their official state dog: working dogs. Out of all 13 states, Oklahoma didn't pop up on the list and I got to wondering: why?

Does Oklahoma Have A State Dog?

Believe it or not, Oklahoma does have a designated state animal; but, it isn't a dog, or a cat, or even a bison. Back in 2021, Governor Kevin Stitt designated Oklahoma's state pet as any rescue animal. According to House Bill 1816, better known as Cali's Law, there is no one animal species designated as the state pet.

According to State Rep. Mark McBride, any animal can be a rescue animal "as long as someone is willing to adopt it and care for it and is allowed to have it according to municipal ordinance."

Rescues in Oklahoma

Cali's Law here in Oklahoma sounds incredibly similar to Georgia's state dog: the adoptable dog. But unlike in Georgia, our goal is to get more than just dogs adopted.

@thatgoodnewsgirl Oklahoma City now has two employed rescue cats, possibly making them the leader in cat hires. Betty the Liquor Barn Cat started her job earlier this year and is reportedly a pleasure to work with. 🐈‍⬛ Find Betty here: @Miss Betty 📸 bettytheliquorbarncat #catsofttiktok #catswithjobs #catnews #cats #goodnews #positivecontent ♬ original sound - jenn💜 good news & fun stories

Oklahoma has one of the largest horse populations and numerous rescue centers throughout the state. There are also a handful of sanctuaries that take in horses permanently, like the Diamond Bar Ranch and Sanctuary in Luther, Oklahoma.

Pets in Oklahoma don't have to be your usual farm animals, either. In fact, there is such a need for finding a good, safe place for exotic animals in this state that there are a few rescues dedicated specifically for non-native species, like Oklahoma Exotics Rescue in Oklahoma City.

@sublimesanctuary sublimesanctuaryok.org #animalrescue #starling #rescue #utah #wildlife ♬ Surrender - Natalie Taylor

Most Memorable Rescue Stories From Oklahoma

After realizing just how many people there are here with open arms and loving hearts, it makes sense now why the Governor chose to elect rescue animals as our state pet.

@achowell_ Only in Oklahoma. Thankfully no humas or dogs were harmed in the process. #oklahoma #viral #dogsoftiktok ♬ Come Inside Of My Heart - IV Of Spades

After all, take a look for yourself at some of the most memorable rescue stories from here in Oklahoma.

Fishy, The Stray From Lawton, Oklahoma

Several years ago, the Lawton community came together to rescue this gorgeous boy. After weeks of luring him with cans of sardines and the "fishy, fishy" call, Fishy was eventually caught and taken home to live the good life. Fishy's story was the perfect example of how entire cities in Oklahoma come together to do the right thing for rescue animals.

Now, Fishy's Rescue specifically helps take in stray dogs and get them new homes. They're constantly partnering with local businesses and more to raise money to provide for animals on the streets. For more information about Fishy's Friends Rescue, click here.

Milo, The Pup With Upside Down Paws - Luther, Oklahoma

Milo, the pup surrendered to the Oliver and Friends Farm Rescue and Sanctuary, was born with upside down paws. His elbows were dislocated and he required extensive surgery to eventually walk like a normal pup.

Luckily, thanks to the sanctuary and the Oklahoma State University, he was able to get the corrective surgery and he looks nearly completely normal today. In fact, he's celebrating his 6th birthday coming up in November this year.

Milo's and Fishy's stories are just a few of many. Is your pet a rescue? Share a pic with us! Tell us your story of how you rescued them through the app.

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