Tips from City Committees
Monthly tips from our Animal Welfare Committee & Committee for a Better Environment
Composting Pumpkins
If you compost in your backyard, add your pumpkin. It is helpful if you smash or cut pumpkin into several pieces to quicken the time it takes to break down, although it’s not necessary. Pumpkins are high in nitrogen and considered a “green” when composting.
If you don’t compost at home you can still divert your pumpkins from the landfill by bringing them to the food scrap drop off located at Public Works. Look for the yellow bins.
Keep your Dogs Warm Over the Winter
The weather has started to change and the cold weather months are rapidly approaching. In cold weather, it is important to make sure that your dog has a warm and dry place to be if it is housed outdoors. Now is the time to look at the shelter and make sure that it complies with the Prince George's County regulations. Current County code requires that dogs must have access to a weatherproof shelter that meets the following criteria:
- The entryway must have a self-closing door, an offset door, or a flexible door flap to keep out wind and rain/snow.
- There must be non-absorbent bedding such as straw, woodchips, cedar shavings for insulation and any other bedding must be regularly checked to make sure it is clean and dry.
- The solid, level floor must be raised at least 2 inches off the ground.
- The shelter must be well constructed with no cracks or openings other than the entrance. It should be small enough so that the dog can maintain its body heat but large enough to allow the dog to stand to its full height, turn around, and stretch out when lying down.
While some breeds of dogs thrive in cold weather, most would prefer to be a family pet, spending cold nights in the house with the family. The socialization that takes place when a dog is inside is invaluable for both the family and the pet.