Press Release

 

For immediate release:
May 1, 2024

For more information, contact:
Linda Lowe
Public Information Officer
Department of the Environment
lmlowe@co.pg.md.us; (301) 836-2115 (cell)

 

Prince George’s County Animal Services and Adoption Center to Resume Owner Surrenders May 1

Largo, MD—The Prince George’s County Animal Services and Adoption Facility (ASFAC) will resume accepting pets whose owners can no longer care for them starting today, May 1. In addition, all adoption fees, including spay and neuter services, has returned to the original price schedule. 

Earlier this month, the ASFAC suspended accepting owner surrenders to avoid operating above capacity, to undergo deep cleaning protocols at the facility, and to reduce the risk of needing to euthanize animals. Over the past year, like other open-admission shelters nationwide, ASFAC has operated at or near capacity, limiting space for adoptions and negatively affecting the health and safety of the dogs. 

“Not allowing owner surrenders during this period has allowed us to address illnesses in the facility and bring our live release rate to nearly 80%,” said Animal Services Associate Director David Fisher. “With the community's support in reducing the number of animals we intake and supporting adoptions, rescue, and fostering together, we can continue to be successful.” 

While the facility has resumed accepting owner surrenders, the ASFAC stresses that the public should only consider bringing their pets to the shelter as a last resort. Before surrendering a pet, owners are encouraged to:

• Contact one of our County-approved rescue organizations to see if they can accept your pet.
• Consider rehoming your pet with family and friends.

The ASFAC will continue to educate pet owners on the importance of spaying and neutering their pets, promote responsible pet ownership, and provide pet resources as available. 

Other tips to help keep pets out of the shelter include:

1. Always microchip your pet and make sure it has a quality ID collar tag.
2. Don’t walk your dog off-leash. County code requires all dogs to be walked with a leash.
3. Spay or neuter your pet to prevent overpopulation.
4. Ensure your pet's spaces, like walls, fences, and gates, are secure so they won’t be able to wiggle out. 
5. Take animals in your care to regular veterinary visits and keep them up to date on their vaccinations and pet licenses. Keeping your animal healthy keeps our community of animals healthy.

The ASFAC is open to the public Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

To view the many animals available for adoption, visit princegeorgespets4us.com. 

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