Virginia code requires that impounded dogs and cats be held for a period before they are placed for adoption, transferred to a rescue organization, or, if deemed necessary, euthanized.
Dogs and cats with identification must be held for 10 days.
Dogs and cats without identification must be held for five days. The Animal Services Unit will hold dogs and cats longer to give owners more time to find their pets.
If the animal has identification, the owner will be notified by certified mail.
For dogs, owners will be charged $30 for the first day of confinement and $12 for each succeeding day.
For cats, owners will be charged $12 for the first day of confinement and $6 for each succeeding day.
If an animal requires veterinary treatment while in custody, owners are responsible for payment of the veterinarian fees at the time of redemption.