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Animal Services

Animal Control, operating within the Sheriff’s Office, is committed to protecting life and property, reducing crime, and meeting the needs of our citizens by providing high-quality and efficient service. We uphold the public’s trust through professionalism and accountability. In addition, we serve the community by promoting the welfare of animals and addressing concerns related to problems, neglect, or dangerous animals.

General responsibilities include but are not limited to: 

  • Domestic animals causing disturbances
  • Apprehending and sheltering stray or free-roaming dogs
  • Investigate reports of stray and recovered animals
  • Our office provides cat traps to residents, free of charge, to assist in the safe capture and transfer of stray and feral cats to the Humane Society.
  • Providing support for sick and injured wildlife
  • Conduct investigations into cases of animal neglect and abuse
  • Responds to reports of pets left in hot or unsafe vehicles and takes appropriate action to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals in accordance with local and state laws

Report stray pets or abuse

Call 757-890-3601 to report stray cats and dogs, suspected neglect or abuse of livestock or domestic animals, or injured small wildlife including raccoons and opossums.

Request Removal of Dead Animals Along Roadways

For the removal of dead animals along roadways, contact the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) by reporting a road problem online or calling 1-800-FOR-ROAD (1-800-367-7623).

Report Problems with Wildlife

To report concerns about nuisance wildlife or issues with larger animals like bears or deer, please contact the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources.

Who is responsible for enforcing wildlife related laws?

The Virginia Department of Game & Inland Fisheries (VDGIF), recently renamed as the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (VDWR) is responsible for enforcing state laws relating to wildlife. The new name reflects the wide range of wildlife conservation responsibilities and opportunities the agency has, from hunting and fishing to wildlife watching, public lands, boating, and outdoor recreation. If you have wildlife-related questions, contact VDWR at (804) 829-6580, and if you need to report a problem with wildlife on your property, please contact their Hotline at (855) 571-9003.

Outside Dogs

If a dog is kept outdoors, it must be provided with an enclosed shelter and a constant supply of fresh water. When restrained by a chain, the length of the chain should be a minimum of 15 feet or four times the length of the dog’s body, whichever is greater.

More Information

Please call the York Poquoson Animal Services at 757-890-3601 or the Virginia Health Department, 757-594-7340.

Preparing Your Pet for Emergencies

Are your pets a part of your family’s emergency plan? Learn more about what you can do to prepare for your pets during an emergency on the Virginia Department of Health website.