Animal Care and Protection

The Department of Animal Care and Protection is comprised of two branches, enforcement and sheltering. Animal Protection Officers enforce all State and County animal welfare ordinances. Officers provide for the safety and welfare of residents as it pertains to the control of domestic animals. The department also operates a shelter to care for stray animals and attempt to reunite them with an owner. Shelter staff find homes for all adoptable animals through citizen adoptions along with coordinating transfers to animal rescue organizations.

Goochland County Announces Opening of New Animal Shelter and Adoption Center

Goochland County announces the opening of the new Goochland Animal Shelter and Adoption Center on Monday, June 15^th.  Goochland County, Goochland County Animal Protection, and the Goochland Pet Lovers are excited to have the new shelter open.

The new 13,941 square foot state of the art facility incorporates a municipal animal shelter, an adoption center, and an in house spay/neuter clinic far surpassing the size of the former Animal Shelter.  Located at 1900 Hidden Rock Lane, it is built on the site of the former Animal Shelter.  This modern facility is a shining example of county and community collaboration that will benefit Goochland County for many years to come.

Development and construction of the Goochland Animal Shelter and Adoption Center was possible through county funds and generous community contributions through the Goochland Pet Lovers.

“I am extremely proud that Goochland has delivered on our commitment to build a shelter that is well constructed and that will serve the community for many years to come,” said County Administrator John A. Budesky.  “We are grateful for the gracious and ongoing support and our partnership with Goochland Pet Lovers.  The shelter reflects our desire to create a caring environment our residents and pets deserve.”

Planning for the new shelter began in January 2015. In August 2017, the county broke ground on the new facility. In the Spring of 2019, the original general contractor was fired for a lack of performance. Hourigan Construction ultimately was hired as the interim contractor and eventually as the County’s completion contractor in October 2019.

“The Goochland County Animal Protection staff and I are excited to get to work in our new facility,” said Tim Clough, Animal Protection Director.  “The new shelter provides a safe environment for lost pets and gives visitors a comfortable and inviting atmosphere to view adoptable pets. Thank you to all involved that made this collaborative project a success.”

The new Animal Shelter and Adoption Center doors will be open to the public for regular business on Tuesday, June 16 with established hours of Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  While the facility is open, due to the ongoing pandemic the county encourages the community to view the virtual grand opening below and the 360 walkthrough tour at Animal Shelter 360 Walkthrough.