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1. Can I adopt an animal from the animal shelter?

Yes, animals are available for adoption. The adoption fee schedule is as follows:

Dog - Male         $55

Dog - Female    $65

Cat - Male         $40

Cat - Female    $50

Adoption Agreement

2. Does Goochland County have a leash law?

Yes, it is illegal to allow a dog to run at large off of its owner’s property April 1 through May 31. Running at large is defined as roaming, running or self-hunting while not under its owner’s or custodian’s immediate control.  Also, year round dogs must be on a leash when on Goochland County property such as parks, school grounds and recreational facilities.

3. What can I do if a neighbor’s dog continues to come on my property causing a nuisance?

Goochland County does have a companion animal nuisance ordinance. Contact Animal Protection at 804-556-5302, an officer will consult with both parties and if the nuisance continues the officer will assist you with the nuisance ordinance proceedings.

4. How do I obtain a dog license?

A dog license is required of all dogs over 4 months of age. License are purchased at the Goochland Treasurer’s Office in person or by mail. Proof of a current rabies vaccination must be presented at the time of purchase. Treasurer's Office

5. Do cats have to be licensed in Goochland County?

No, cats do not have to licensed at this time.

6. How do I report an animal bite?

To report an animal bite, call the Sheriff’s Department nonemergency number 804-556-5348. An Animal Protection Officer will be immediately notified.

7. Is there a limit on the number of animals I can own in Goochland County?

No, there is no limit on the number of animals you can own at this time.

8. What happens to a stray animal that is picked up by an Animal Protection Officer?

If a stray is picked up by an Animal Protection Officer, the animal is impounded at the animal shelter. If the animal does not have a collar or ID, it is held for 5 full days and then made available for adoption. If the animal bears a collar but no ID, it is held for 10 full days and then made available for adoption.

9. How do I reclaim my animal from the Animal Shelter?

You can reclaim your animal during regular business hours. You will be charged a $20 pickup fee. If the animal is reclaimed within 48 hours of entering the shelter, there will be no boarding fee charged. The boarding fee is $15/day after the initial 48 hours.

Please bring some form of identification (rabies certificate, vet bill, photograph) so that shelter staff can verify the animal is yours.

10. Who do I call about nuisance wildlife?

For wildlife nuisances, call the Virginia Wildlife Conflict Hotline at 855-571-9003. Animal Protection will not trap and/or remove nuisance wildlife from your property.

11. Who do I call about a dead animal on my property?

Animal Protection does not pick up dead animals. If the animal is near the state right-of-way, contact Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) at 800-FOR-ROAD and they will remove the animal.