The City of Seminole Animal Control Department says animal abandonment has become a growing concern in the community and will not be tolerated.

“Animal abandonment is not only inhumane, it is a criminal offense. These actions place innocent animals in situations of extreme stress, starvation, injury, and often death. Beyond the ethical implications, it creates public safety concerns and places an unnecessary burden on local resources and personnel working to protect both animals and citizens,” the Seminole Animal Shelter posted on social media last week. “We want to be clear: this behavior will not be tolerated. Individuals found responsible for abandoning animals can face fines, citations, and potential criminal charges under Oklahoma law.”

The Shelter added that enforcement alone is not enough, and real change requires community accountability.

The Animal Control Department asks the citizens of Seminole to stand with them by: Reporting any suspicious activity related to animal dumping or neglect, supporting responsible pet ownership, including proper containment and care, and by utilize available resources.

“If you are unable to care for an animal, there are humane and legal options. Abandonment is not one of them,” officials said. “A strong community protects those who cannot protect themselves. Together, we can raise the standard of animal welfare in Seminole and ensure that compassion, responsibility, and accountability define our city.”

Those with questions should contact the Seminole Animal Shelter at (405) 3825913.

Left, a drone captured this image of a large grassfire that broke out Sunday on EW 119 west of Highway 56 in northeastern Seminole County. Crews from the Cromwell Fire Department and the Bureau of Indian Affairs responded to the blaze. Several wildfires raged across the state Sunday, including one near Asher that consumed at least 100 acres. Multiple agencies, including the Konawa Fire Department and the Oklahoma Forestry Services task force, responded to that fire, along with an Oklahoma National Guard Helicopter. (Image courtesy Aaron Anderson)