Page Contents
Who We Are
We are dog lovers, whether we own, foster, dog sit, or just admire dogs – so we changed our name from Dog Owners Group to Families with Dogs. We are attached “legally or otherwise” to many types of dogs: large and small, vocal and quiet, purebred and mutt. This this does not preclude equal love for other kinds of pets.
Why a Webpage?
Our goal is to make information exchange and even activities available to everyone at Riderwood including families and friends.We can gossip about dogs, get recommendations about grooming, pet care, vet services and myriad other topics, such as “do you know what a “snuffle mat” is? or using a bone with your favorite filling (dog appropriate) such as canned dog food or vegetables.
Let’s Stay in Touch
We have plans: an email group “dogs@RWV.groups.io” is coming. It is NOT part of Chatterwood, except as a subgroup. That means, if you want to belong to the “dogs” email list, you do not have to also receive Chatterwood emails, unless you’ve requested to belong.
Riderwood Information
Pets are welcome at Riderwood, but are not allowed in clubhouses: lobbies, near restaurants), mailrooms, fitness centers or other common areas. Pets, including cats, must be leased and not left unattended. Pet owners are required to pick up pet waste, dispose of it in an outdoor trash can, keep pets away from plantings, and use the closest residential building exit/entrance to their residence. (There are no “Pet Police”; this is just common sense because owners have control!)
The “Riderwood Resident Handbook” (either a hardcopy or online on MyErickson under “Resident Resources”) details the “Pet Policy” for Riderwood, a form which is signed when a new resident moves or, or later, if a resident acquires a new pet.
Pet Registration
Is your dog registered with Riderwood? Did you know when you register your dog you should get an emergency decal? The pet should also have a license (see below for more infomration). On MyErickson under “Forms” there is an online pet registration form.
Riderwood Dog Run/Park
The Dog Run/Park is located near the Berkshire Gardens parking lot, next to the resident garden plots. It is an enclosed area where your pet in wander without a leash but please do not leave the pet unattended and review these documents for the hours, and other “rules of the road” to make the experience enjoyable and safe for everyone – human and animal – click inside each “button” for information.
Other Useful Information
Legal Information:
Both Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties require a dog license for your pet; the license number must be included on the Pet Form for Riderwood.
Prince George’s County Dog License
Animal Services
Montgomery County Animal Control (Emergencies 301-279-8000)
Prince George’s County Animal Control (Emergencies 301-780-7200)
Other Nearby Services
Kennels (nearby)
Paradise for Pets
Rivermist
Veterinarians
Fairland Animal Hospital
Beltsville
Emergency Animal Hospital (Apex Vets)
Websites
Your Dog’s Friend – force-free positive training, free advice and resources (a local website)
Victoria Stillwell Positively – online dog training
PetPlace.com – a veritable potpurri of information on dog health, insurance, microchips, safety, names, adoption advice…
Questions
Send an email to pets@riderwoodlife.com for any questions, comments or concerns about the website or its contents.
Last modified: 05/20/2026