Virginia § 3.2-6551 - Notification by individuals finding companion animals; penalty
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 3.2-6551 — Notification by individuals finding companion animals; penalty, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 3.2-6551. Notification by individuals finding companion animals; penalty
A. Any individual who finds a companion animal and (i) provides care or safekeeping or (ii) retains the companion animal in such a manner as to control its activities shall within 48 hours:
1. Make a reasonable attempt to notify the owner of the companion animal if the owner can be ascertained from any tag, license, collar, tattoo, or other form of identification or markings or if the owner of the animal is otherwise known to the individual; and
2. Notify the public animal shelter that serves the locality where the companion animal was found and provide to the shelter contact information, including at least a name and a contact telephone number, a description of the animal, including information from any tag, license, collar, tattoo, or other identification or markings, and the location where the companion animal was found.
B. If an individual finds a companion animal and (i) provides care or safekeeping or (ii) retains the companion animal in such a manner as to control its activities, the individual shall comply with the provisions of § 3.2-6503.
C. Any individual who violates this section may be subject to a civil penalty not to exceed $50 per companion animal.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 3.2-6551
What does Code of Virginia § 3.2-6551 cover?
Section 3.2-6551 ("Notification by individuals finding companion animals; penalty") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 3.2-6551?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 3.2-6551" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 3.2-6551 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.