Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the questions we get most often each year. If you have other questions, please reach out via email.
How long will the pumpkin drive last?
We will accept GOOD pumpkins until January 1st, 2027.
Can I feed my pumpkins to the animals?
Unfortunately, contributing your pumpkin(s) to our Annual Pumpkin Drive is not an opportunity for feeding the sanctuary animals.
The goal of the annual pumpkin drive is to collect and deliver as many pumpkins to the sanctuaries as possible.
The sanctuaries are all non-profits, run fully by volunteers and the sanctuary founders. Taking care of all of the animals is non-stop hard work and very time-consuming so we try to ensure that our pumpkin deliveries require as little time and effort from the sanctuary founders and volunteers as possible.
So, our pumpkin deliveries are full truckloads and always just unload and go.
Of course, we totally understand wanting to feed and interact with the animals though! The good news is that most of the sanctuaries do hold events throughout the year, inviting the public to come and visit with their animal residents.
And, if you are interested in the most hands-on experiences with the animals, all of the sanctuaries are in need of regular (usually 1-4 days per month) volunteers to help with care, cleaning, maintenance, and socializing.
Here are website links to some of the sanctuaries we have delivered to in the past. Check their event listings, updates, and volunteer opportunities!
- Pebble Ranch, Lakeside
- The Shore Sanctuary, Lakeside
- The Open Barn, Ramona
- New Life Animal Sanctuary, Lake Elsinore
- Wee Companions (small animal rescue), University City
- Sale Ranch Animal Sanctuary, Temecula
- Farm Animal Refuge, Campo
- Saving Animals and Healing Hearts, Ramona
- Steampunk Farms Rescue Barn, Ranchita
Will you take giant pumpkins too?
Yes! Giant pumpkins are wonderful BUT please be 100% sure your giant pumpkin does NOT SHOW ANY signs of rotting (no soft spots, holes, cracks, mold) and is not painted before taking it to one of the drop sites. Thank you!
Are there other items I can donate?
Some of the sanctuaries can always use the following items, which are all accepted at our drop sites during our Annual Pumpkin Drive for the animals:
Unused puppy pads/incontinence sheets. Some of the sanctuaries care for special needs animals that must live indoors. The absorbant pads are always helpfull and appreciated.
Boxes of plain cheerios and plain oatmeal. Pigs love them and they are great for hiding in toys for enrichment! Off brand is totally okay too.
Blankets and towels. NO down-filled or oversized items please!-linens must be CLEAN and fit in standard washing machine. Sleeping bags are okay too as long as they are CLEAN and NOT down-filled.
Thank you!!
Does Hooksaurus accept money on behalf of the sanctuaries?
We are not a 501(c)(3) at this time. If you would like to donate, please do so directly through the sanctuary websites.
