Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ's

What's the difference between Animal Control and The SPCA?
How do I file an animal complaint?
Who do I call if I am missing my animal?
Can I give my dog its rabies shot?
My dog never goes outside. Do I need to still buy a dog license?
Must I put the county license tag on my dog?
What are the rules on dogs running loose?
Does Animal Control lend out traps?
Does Animal Control pick up stray cats?

What's the difference between Animal Control and The SPCA?
The Augusta County Animal Control department is a County agency that works under the county administrator. Animal Control Officers are governed by county law to enforce all county and state laws dealing with animals. The Augusta County SPCA is a privately owned organization and is independent from county control. The SPCA is contracted with the County of Augusta and the Cities of Waynesboro and Staunton to provide kenneling facilities for the animals that are taken in. The SPCA operates with private donations and private grants. 
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How do I file an animal complaint?
Call our dispatcher at 245-5635 or stop by the government center in Verona. The complaint will be given to an officer to investigate. If the officer sees a violation when he/she arrives, appropriate action will be taken. 
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Who do I call if I am missing my animal?
Call the SPCA. They will try to determine if an animal fitting the description of your animal was picked up and impounded. If we have not impounded your animal we will fill out a lost card describing the animal, and keep it on file. Please be mindful that it is very difficult to identify mixed breed animals due to discrepancies and variations in descriptions.
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Can I give my dog its rabies shot?
No- All dogs, cats and ferrets 4 months or more of age must be vaccinated against rabies by a currently licensed veterinarian or by an animal technician certified pursuant to the Code of Virginia.
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My dog never goes outside. Do I need to still buy a dog license?
All dogs four (4) months or older must have a county dog license.
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Must I put the county license tag on my dog?
Such tag shall be affixed to the collar of the dog to which it relates and must be worn by such dog at all times except: when the dog is competing in a dog show, or when the dog has a skin condition which would be exacerbated by wearing of a collar.
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What are the rules on dogs running loose?
Dogs are NOT permitted to roam free off the owner's property in any area of the county. The "leash law" covers dogs only. This ordinance states that when a dog is being walked on any city sidewalk, city street or public right-of-way, it has to be on a leash or lead at all times, and must be under the control of a responsible person. 
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Does Animal Control lend out traps?
Cat traps are available on a first come first serve basis. Please call 540-245-5635 during regular hours to set up an appointment to pick up a trap at the government center in Verona. Traps are loaned out for 2-week periods.
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Does Animal Control pick up stray cats?
If you have a stray cat it can be dropped off at the SPCA during their regular hours. A trap may be borrowed from animal control.
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