Citizens are encouraged to donate pet bedding and houses to the St. Mary’s Animal Welfare League and St. Mary’s County Department of Public Safety for distribution to households.  SMAWL and Animal Control staff will be at Petco in California on Nov. 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m to receive donations. Distribution of these donations will take place at a later date.

St. Mary’s County Animal Control Regulations require outdoor pet houses meet the following standards:

• Weather proof, keeping animals safe from rain, wind and snow
• Covered from direct sunlight
• Covered entrance, such as a flap or swinging door
• Structurally sound
• Elevated At least 2 inches off of the ground
• Dry bedding

Help the pets of St. Mary’s County by donating houses that are structurally sound and have the ability to be modified to fit the above regulations.  Bedding that is dry, clean and approved by Animal Control is appreciated; examples include fabric bedding, hay, wood chips and blankets. 

All donations will be received by SMAWL.  If you are in need of bedding or a house for your pet this winter or would like to donate but are unable to drop off at Petco, please contact Animal Control at (301) 475-8018.  For more information on St. Mary’s County Animal Control Regulations, please visit http://www.stmarysmd.com/Emergencycomm/animalcontrol.asp.