Animal Control | City of College Park, Maryland

The City’s Animal Shelter is used by the City’s Animal Control Officer to impound animals that were found at large or any other authorized reason.

All animals are held in a humane manner of a period of not less than three business days, unless the animals has been redeemed or claimed by its owner sooner.

Illegal, feral, exotic, dangerous or vicious animals may be immediately euthanized if the public health, safety or welfare so requires or may be taken to the Prince George’s County Animal Shelter without being retained by the City for any period.

FAQ

Can I come by the shelter?
The City’s Animal Control Shelter is not open to the public. Any visitation to the facility is by appointment only and needs to be made with the City’s Animal Control Officer

What are the redemption fees?
Redemption fees for each animal impounded is dictated by the City Code {link} and a current boarding rate of cost plus overhead for each calendar day the animal has been in the care of the City Animal Control Shelter. Boarding charges begin the morning after impoundment.

Payment must be in exact cash, by check made out to “City of College Park” or by credit card during the Department of Public Services' business hours.

Fees:
Each impoundment $25 per animal
Second or subsequent impoundments $50 per animal
Boarding fee per calendar day $10

These fees shall be in addition to any fees or fines stemming from any violation of the City Code and may be reduced or modified at the discretion of the Animal Control Officer.

What do I need to bring to redeem my animal?
Owners or caregivers must provide a State or Federal ID (driver’s license or passport) and proof of ownership (copies of vet records, photos of pet, etc.)

Where is the County’s Animal Shelter or how do I contact them?
The Prince George’s County Animal Shelter is 3750 Brown Station Rd, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772

Restraining your Pet
Regular exercise is essential for your pet’s good health, but it is important to uphold the City and County’s “leash law.” For health and safety reasons, both dogs and cats must be leashed when they are not on their owner’s property. Dogs and cats found unrestrained and off their property can be impounded for running at large and their owners must pay considerable redemption fees and fines.

Cleaning up after your Pet or Scoop that Poop!
Animal waste is not allowed to endure on any property by law. Pet owners are responsible for immediately removing their animal’s waste on other’s private property and on public property, and disposing of it appropriately. Pet owners must also clean up waste on their own property. Excessive waste on one’s property is not only a health hazard, but can attract rats.

Proper care for your Pet
If dogs or cats are kept outside unattended they must have clean water available at all times, proper shelter to protect them, and proper space in which to move. Pets are also entitled to appropriate veterinary care when needed. Not providing these things for your pet is considered animal cruelty and neglect. For more information, please click here. {link to PG County’s Proper Care Standards for Enforcement of Anti-Cruelty Laws}

Hobby Permits
Hobby permits are required for households with more than four animals larger than a guinea pig. For more information, please click here.

Pit Bull Law
Pit bulls are illegal in Prince George’s County. Owners may be fined or face criminal prosecution and the County may confiscate and euthanize the animal. Pit bulls are defined as: American Staffordshire Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier, as well as any of their mixes. Prince George’s County is no longer registering new Pit Bulls for County residents.

OVERVIEW

Animal Intake & Disposition Summary (MASSA Stats)

Guide: Pets & Wildlife