As long as the dog has a collar and an up-to-date tag then it is not considered a stray and is permitted to run at-large in most areas. However, there are some dog control areas where more than 75% of the area property owners filed a petition to restrict at-large dogs.

While dogs are allowed to run at large beyond the limits of their own land, livestock owners must keep their animals on their own property.

Under the Lack of Control of Companion Animal Ordinance (Section 2-26 of Chapter 2 Pittsylvania County's Ordinance), someone can take an animal owner to civil court if their dog, cat, or other companion animal is a nuisance. Some examples where this statute would apply include: 

• An animal is repeatedly trespassing and damaging property
• An animal habitually runs at large in a restricted area
• An animal bothers people that are not located on the owner's property
• An animal poops in someone else's yard or in any public place not owned by the owner

A dog that has caused physical harm to a dog, cat, or human can be classified as a dangerous dog. It is important to note that a dog is not considered vicious or dangerous until it is deemed by the Court. An owner that allows their dog to run at large is subject to a class 4 misdemeanor.

If you believe that a dog should be deemed dangerous, please contact our office. 

If you find a dog without a collar, please use this form to report it. If you find a dog that appears lost, do not take it home with you. Since dogs are classified as personal property, taking a dog can result in theft charges.

The Pittsylvania County Animal Ordinance, much of which is based off of State Code, stipulates that it is illegal to tie up dogs outside in poor weather conditions. Dogs cannot be tethered if the temperature is higher than 85 or lower than 32. 

Please inform the Animal Control Department of any abuse or neglect that you see.