FAQs • Goochland County, VA • CivicEngage

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.

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Animal Control

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

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.