CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – You’re driving down a quiet road and spot a dog walking alone. He looks thin. Maybe confused. Your first instinct is a good one: I want to help this dog.
So you bring him home, give him food, a warm place to sleep, and plan to “figure it out” in a few days.
Here’s the important part many well-meaning people don’t realize: in Virginia, that decision can unintentionally change the animal’s legal status and limit their options for help.
What Is Considered a “Stray” in Virginia?
In Virginia, a stray animal is generally defined as:…