Seasonal Pet Care

Cruelty and Neglect

The Prince George’s County Animal Control Ordinance Section 3-180, titled Animal Cruelty and Neglect, states "all domestic animals except livestock are prohibited from being kept outdoors when the effective outdoor wind chill index is 32 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, or the heat index is 90 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, as determined by the National Weather Service."

Any person who inflicts unnecessary suffering or pain upon the animal may be charged by the provisions of Subsection (b). View a copy of the Animal Control Ordinance here.

To report an animal experiencing neglect or cruelty in Prince George's County, contact the Animal Services Division 24/7 at 301-780-7200, and select “8” for animal-related emergencies. 

Hot Weather Tips for Animals

During the summer, the heat can cause serious problems for animals and can even be fatal. Here are some tips to give pets the extra care they need during the hot summer days:

• Car Trouble: Animals should never be left in a car during warm weather. Even in the shade with the windows open, the interior temperature of a parked car rises quickly and animals can sustain brain damage or die. Call to report animals left in cars at 301-780-7200.
• Excess Heat: Dogs and cats do not sweat and must rely on panting to remove excess heat from their bodies.
• Shade: Shade should be available at all times during the day for animals confined outdoors. A tree, fabric tarp, or a shady porch may provide protection from the sun. Animals prefer to live inside with their families and are much safer there.
• Fresh, Clean Water: Dogs kept outdoors often knock over their water bowls. A heavy crock or bucket with a brick or large rock in the bottom works best as a water bowl. Remember, water left in the sun gets hot and needs to be changed frequently!
• Grooming: Both dogs and cats need help shedding their heavy winter coats. A thorough brushing each day removes excess hair.
• Flea and Tick Control: Bathing and combing your pet and vacuuming your home helps keep these pests under control. Try to limit the use of toxic dips, sprays and collars, which can poison animals if used improperly. 

Winter Pet Care Reminders

If your dog stays outdoors in cold weather, the law requires you to provide:

• A dog house of proper size that is dry, draft free and raised off the ground
• A wind flap attached to the dog house to keep cold air out and warm air in
• Bedding that is non-absorbent such as straw or wood shavings to help keep the dog warm
• Drinking water that is not frozen and in a secured container to prevent tipping

All domestic animals, except livestock, must be brought indoors when the effective outdoor wind chill index is 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

 Some other pet care suggestions for the winter months include:

• Keep cats, puppies under 6 months and small or short-haired dogs inside.
• Increase the amount of their food - outdoor dogs need more calories in the winter to produce body heat.
• Use pet-friendly ice or chemicals to melt snow and limit irritation to your pet's paws - wipe paws with a wet cloth after an outing.
• Bang loudly on your car hood before starting the engine to give community cats a chance to escape. Cats like to seek shelter from the cold and can be under the hood of your car.

Read more tips for Cold Weather and Your Pet here.