What Pumpkins Are Acceptable?

Please review our guidelines before bringing pumpkins to a drop site.

✓ Accepted Pumpkins

✓ Whole, Uncarved Pumpkins

Uncarved pumpkins in good condition are our top pick. They last longest and are the most nutritious for sanctuary animals. Any size is welcome — from tiny sugar pumpkins to giant carving pumpkins.

✓ Decorative Gourds and Hard Squash

Most decorative gourds and hard squash varieties are welcome alongside pumpkins. If it grew in a pumpkin patch, there's a good chance the animals will enjoy it!

✓ Any Color or Variety

Orange, white, green, striped — all natural pumpkin varieties are accepted. The animals don't care what color they are!

✗ Not Accepted

✗ Rotted or Moldy Pumpkins

Pumpkins that have begun to rot or show visible mold cannot be accepted. Mold can be harmful to animals, and rotted pumpkins make a mess at drop sites. When in doubt, leave it out.

✗ Painted or Glittered Pumpkins

Paint, glitter, spray lacquer, and other decorative coatings are toxic to animals. Even "non-toxic" craft paint is not safe for consumption. Pumpkins must be fully natural and uncoated.

✗ Carved Pumpkins

Pumpkins must be WHOLE and uncut.

✗ Pumpkins with Embedded Decorations

Pumpkins with nails, screws, glued-on decorations, or other non-food items embedded in them cannot be accepted. These pose a choking or injury hazard to animals.