Animal welfare advocates plan two-day conference

Animal advocates, experts and citizens will gather Oct. 22-23 to explore obstacles to animal wellbeing and discuss opportunities to actively support animal welfare in communities across Oklahoma.

The 2018 AnimalConference is an opportunity for individuals interested in making a positive change for animals, including companion, farm, wildlife and zoo species, to interact with other advocates and leaders in various fields.

Animal advocates and community change experts will address issues in sessions throughout the two-day event.

Among the keynote speakers will be London-based wildlife photographer Tim Flach, who will discuss his up-close encounters with various species.

The results of a statewide research project that studied Oklahomans’ attitudes and values around animal treatment will be unveiled. Also, the Lutheran Comfort Dogs, seven Golden Retrievers deployed during tragedies, will be in attendance.

The conference, hosted by the Kirkpatrick Foundation, will be held at the Skirvin-Hilton Hotel. “This conference is an exciting extension of our Safe & Humane Initiative,” said Louisa McCune, Kirkpatrick Foundation executive director. “We welcome fellow animal advocates and anyone interested to join at the historic Skirvin Hotel as we explore innovative programs to make Oklahoma the safest, most humane place for animals by 2032.”

For details or to register, go to www.theanimalconference.com.