County News
Get to know your local Animal Control team
Animal welfare in Gloucester County, Virginia is driven by the dedicated work of Gloucester County Animal Control (GCAC), a public agency committed to protecting both animals and the community. Operating under state and local laws, Animal Control Officers serve as the first responders to calls involving animal cruelty, neglect, abandonment, strays, aggressive animals, and bite cases. These officers enforce licensing laws, investigate complaints, and provide emergency response services 365 days a year. In addition to law enforcement duties, the officers manage the county's shelter, where they care for animals that are lost, surrendered, or seized during cruelty investigations. While public safety is a primary focus, GCAC is also committed to finding positive outcomes for every adoptable animal. Officers work closely with reputable rescues and local fosters increase “live release” rates. GCAC has earned no-kill awards for the past three years in a row.
prepared for placement. GCAC also oversees a small adoption program, matching pets with responsible homes. Adopters are carefully screened to ensure the animal's needs are met, and that they do not end up back in the shelter system.
The department actively promotes spay and neuter education and encourages responsible pet ownership.
The nonprofit “Friends of Gloucester County Animal Control” supports all of these efforts, providing vital funding for medical care, enrichment, and emergency needs beyond what the county budget allows. This partnership strengthens the department's ability to go above and beyond — whether that means providing heartworm treatment, building outdoor dog runs, or supporting community outreach. Gloucester County Animal Control exemplifies a modern, compassionate approach to animal welfare, combining law enforcement, sheltering, rescue partnerships and education to protect animals and serve the public with the highest measure of integrity and care.
Through protocols and behavioral assessments, animals are
Get involved or follow the mission online:
gloucesterva.gov/animal-control
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