Virginia sets no fixed numeric hoarding cap, but Code § 3.2-6503 requires every owner to give each companion animal adequate care, space, food, water and veterinary care. Chesterfield's three-dog residential limit also curbs overcrowding.
There is no single "hoarding" number in Virginia law; excessive-animal cases are prosecuted under the companion-animal care statute. Code § 3.2-6503 requires each owner to provide every companion animal adequate feed, water, shelter, space, exercise, care and veterinary treatment, and adequate space in the primary enclosure for the animal's age, size, species and weight. Chesterfield's zoning limit of three adult dogs per residential lot and its kennel-license framework help prevent overcrowding. Animal Services and law enforcement investigate neglect complaints; seized animals may be impounded and forfeited.
Inadequate care under § 3.2-6503 is a Class 4 misdemeanor, rising to a Class 6 felony for repeat or aggravated offenses, with possible forfeiture of the animals.
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See how Chesterfield County's animal hoarding rules stack up against other locations.
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