The SPCA/Humane Society of Prince George’s County, Inc. is a non-profit organization of volunteers dedicated to animal welfare. We do not operate the county shelter. We are chartered by the State of Maryland, but we receive no state or county funds. Our activities are supported solely by contributions, dues, and fundraising events.
ADOPTION & FOSTERING
Foster Dogs - How Do We Choose? Every dog deserves a forever home, and every special dog has his own journey to it. The PGSPCA helps a number of dogs on their way toward happiness by taking them into our foster program and making sure they are adopted to a loving home. So, just how do we choose?
PGSPCA foster dogs most often start their journey at the Animal Services Facility in Upper Marlboro, though they sometimes venture over from the Animal Control in Anne Arundel County, or on occasion, are surrendered by an owner.
Our Adoption Coordinators work closely with the Rescue Coordinators at the Prince George’s shelter. When the PGSPCA has a new foster willing to take on a dog, or a seasoned foster has space, the adoption coordinators go to the shelter to see which dogs are available and waiting for a home.
In making the selection, they consider what the foster family can accommodate in size, breed, age, and gender. The focus of the program is to provide help for dogs that might otherwise not find a home, which includes dogs with medical issues, those that are a little shy or have been at the shelter a long time. Unlike some smaller rescues, the PGSPCA has funds (through generous donations and active fundraising) to take care of furry friends who have some medical expenses. The number of dogs in the program all depends on how many fosters there are … and we are always looking for more!
Before a dog enters into the foster program, it is evaluated for its temperament with other dogs, interaction with humans, and general demeanor. While cuteness does play a factor, the PGSPCA really looks for those who need that extra boost.
Then the foster family meets their new special friend to see if they are a good fit. Just as with adoptions, the foster match is based on chemistry - making sure the lifestyle of the family meshes with the temperament of the dog and the animal’s needs. Once a dog has a foster family, its photos and profile are posted for adopters to see on multiple adoption sites, including our own.
The amount of time dogs stay with us could be as short as a month to as long as a year — but they spend it with a loving foster family that is focused on finding them their forever home.
PGSPCA IN THE COMMUNITY
A Barking Good Time with the Bowie Baysox
Though the weather proved to be a little windy, that did not stop foster dogs Betty and Charlie from meeting many wonderful families at the Bowie Baysox FanFest on April 24th. Volunteers spoke to various people about adopting Betty, Charlie, and other foster dogs, as well as our adoption process and the mission of the PGSPCA. We handed out some pretty cool PGSPCA hand fans, which became something of a game for adults and kids alike, opening the fans and figuring out how to twist them back to tuck away for easy storage. We also handed out pamphlets, foster/adoption information, and received donations for pairs of beautiful paw earrings—generously handmade especially for the PGSPCA—and pet odor-eliminating candles.
Betty and Charlie generated a lot of interest and were treated to plenty of pats, rubs, and hugs! They were a huge hit and received adoption applications from the event. The Bowie Baysox green mascot, Louie, stopped by our table to meet Miss Betty and Charlie. While Louie and Betty seemed to hit it off, Charlie was happier showing off several fantastic tricks his foster mom taught him. Everyone applauded! We were very glad to be part of the Baysox FanFest and look forward to going back next year.
Coming Soon! Baysox Fundraiser!
The PGSPCA will be participating in "Bark in the Park" on Sunday, May 17th. Use the PGSPCA's special promo code when purchasing Baysox game tickets, and a portion of the ticket sale proceeds will be donated back to your organization. The donation back will be between $3-$6 per ticket, dependent on what level seating is purchased. Game time is at 2:05 pm and the stadium gates open at 1:00 pm.
PGSPCA IN THE COMMUNITY
Success at Maryland DogFest Thanks to PGSPCA volunteers Gwyn and Emi for representing us at the Maryland DogFest in LaPlata on April 11th. We had a table in the adoption tent with other rescue groups.This state-wide festival was an opportunity to share information on our programs with animal lovers coming from all over Maryland.
Upcoming Events
Volunteer Orientations
If you are interested in volunteering with the PGSPCA, then these events are for you!
Special Events & Fundraisers Bark in the Park
Sunday, May 17th | Prince George's Stadium - Bowie Game time is 2:05pm. Stadium gates open at 1:00pm. Bring your dog to the ballpark for a day of baseball and fun! All dogs must be on leashes.
Bowiefest
Saturday, June 6 | 11am–6pm | Allen Pond Park - Bowie From the event website: Bowiefest is a long-standing tradition in the City bringing the best of Bowie's civic organizations, entertainers, and businesses to one place for one day. There will be rides, performances, contests, and a host of food and drink options throughout the park. There's also an Arts and Crafts fair, a Business Expo in the Ice Arena and local organizations of every size and interest will be on hand to introduce you what they do and perhaps entice you get involved.
Visit www.pgspca.org for times and locations for all events.
