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 (GCSNAP, Alley Cat, etc) 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.  It fronted onto Highway 75 and was located in the primary growth area of Bartlesville.  Our first goal was complete.  We had found higher ground.

The land was granted a special permit by the Washington County Board of Adjustments and the WCSPCA contracted with Animal Arts Design Studios of Boulder, Colorado to design a floor plan and a site plan for the new shelter.  These plans were complete in July of 2009.  In the future, Scott Ambler - of Ambler Architects will be working hand in hand with the Design committee and Animal Arts Design Studios to develop construction drawings.