What Pumpkins Are Acceptable?

Help us help the animals — please review these 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.

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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!

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Any Color or Variety

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

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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.

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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.

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Carved Pumpkins

Pumpkins must be WHOLE and uncut.

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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.

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Questions about whether your pumpkin qualifies? Contact us or just bring it — our volunteers will sort it out with a smile.

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