Virginia State Dog Boarding Laws

While working with and around dogs can be very fun and rewarding, there are quite a few things to consider before opening a boarding or kennel facility. Unlike some other states, Virginia has specific laws set in place in regards to running a boarding or kennel facility that could result in criminal charges if not followed.

  1. Animal Husbandry

    • When owning and operating a dog boarding facility, proper animal husbandry is expected to be provided for all dogs in the care of the establishment. This means that all dogs must have adequate means of shelter, food and water. According to Virginia law, "shelter" means that every animal must have room to stand up, lie down and turn around in its cage. Also, each dog must be provided food and water and not be allowed to remain in its own feces or urine.

    Permits

    • Each locality in the state of Virginia is allowed to require a permit in order to own and operate a dog boarding facility not to exceed the amount of $50, which may be subject to a prohibitive hearing in court. This permit can be revoked by the locality if the business owner does not comply with the requirements agreed to when applying for the permit.

    Animal Injuries

    • When an animal is injured while in the care of a boarding kennel, the facility will be responsible for the cost of immediate emergency care. The owner of the dog will be responsible for any reasonable amount of expenses accrued while in the care of the veterinarian unless the injury is due to infractions made by the boarding facility. This does not include self-mutilation by the dog while in the care of the boarding facility.