The Animal Control Unit is comprised of two branches, enforcement and sheltering. Both are under the direction of the Commanding Officer of Special Operations. Each entity serves different functions though partner to provide holistic animal services for the community. Information related to each branch can be located via their respective links.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Virginia Beach Animal Control Unit is to balance the health, safety and welfare needs of the people and animals in our City. Through our mission we will educate the public about responsible companion animal ownership, aggressively investigate animal cruelty cases, provide compassion and humane care for unwanted, stray, abused, and abandoned animals in our City, give adoptable animals a second chance at a forever home, and humanely euthanize animals when necessary and appropriate.
VBAC Operates Satellite Adoption Centers
Volunteers are available to answer questions and assist with visits during adoption hours which are Monday-Friday 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Residents can also purchase Virginia Beach City Animal Licenses during the adoption hours. The adoption center is open for visitation during normal store hours but adoptions are conducted only during the above adoption hours. Participating Petsmart locations are listed below.
Plaza Petsmart Location
3413 Virginia Beach Blvd.
Virginia Beach, VA
Hours of Operation:
Monday, Wednesday, & Friday - 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Tuesday - 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Reclaims Only
Thursday - 12 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday - 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day
Officers are on duty from 6:30 a.m.-11 p.m.
An emergency duty officer is available from 11 p.m.-7 a.m.