Our Relationship with the City of Charlottesville & Albemarle County

In addition to functioning as a nonprofit animal shelter, the Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA serves another important community function by serving as the contracted shelter to the City of Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Local governing bodies, such as the City and County, must provide certain pound services in accordance with guidelines established by the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The SPCA receives compensation for the services we provide. Working closely with our City and County partners, the SPCA receives any and all animals surrendered to or impounded by the area’s animal control officers.

Due to our role as the county shelter, our local courts occasionally designate the SPCA as the custodian of animals subject to court action. In this regard, the SPCA must adhere to all local/state laws and regulations governing its operation. We ensure that all animals that are lost or surrendered to us receive proper medical treatment and shelter. In compliance with state law, we find placement in homes or rescue for every eligible animal that comes into our care under our governing contracts with the City and County. We have positive and close working relationships with animal control officers and other law enforcement with an interest in the welfare of animals.
We are proud to provide this service in our community.