Hampton Roads, Virginia

Norfolk, VA Dog Resource Guide

City of Norfolk Laws and Ordinances That Affect Dog Owners

• City of Norfolk Pooper Scooper Laws - The City of Norfolk code (Sec. 6.1-72) declares that it is unlawful to allow any animal to defecate on public property and private property of others without their permission.
• Norfolk Dog Licenses - All dogs four (4) months of age or older are required to have a license in Norfolk; this site provides complete details.
• Norfolk Pet Waste Removal - The City of Norfolk’s Dept. of Environmental Health Services warns of the dangers of allowing pet waste to accumulate.
• Norfolk Rabies Control - Unfortunately, rabies is a problem that can’t be ignored. This link will take you to the city’s Dept. of Environmental Health Services’ site that discusses the city’s rabies program.

City of Norfolk Dog Parks

• Norfolk Dog Parks - As of June 2007, there are 11 dog parks in the City of Norfolk. This link will take you to a website that lists the rules at parks, locations and maps of each park, and an explanation of how new dog parks can be started.
• PETA's Dog Park - The Bea Arthur Dog Park is located near PETA’s headquarters in Norfolk, VA on a  section of land that abuts the Elizabeth River. This park has been listed as one of the “Top 10” dog parks in the country by some organizations.

Norfolk Humane Societies and Animal Shelters

• Norfolk Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) - Located at 916 Ballentine Blvd., Norfolk, VA 23504; is one of the oldest animal welfare organizations in the country, having been established in 1892. The Norfolk SPCA is the only “no-kill” facility in the Hampton Roads area. The Norfolk SPCA receives no governmental funding and is supported entirely by corporate and private donations.
• Norfolk Animal Management Center - Looking to adopt a pet? The City of Norfolk’s Animal Management Center offers pets for adoption. Located on Raby Road (off Military Hwy.), the center invites people to come see what’s available.

Norfolk Rescue Organizations

• Norfolk Area Rescue Organizations - The Tidewater Kennel Club offers a comprehensive list of rescue organizations in the Norfolk area.  
• Animal Rescue of Tidewater - Dedicated to help homeless animals of all kinds find homes. Visit their website to obtain a more comprehensive list of available animals and adoption schedules at Petsmart locations.
• K-9 New Life Center - An all-breed rescue organization located in Virginia Beach, but serving the Hampton Roads area. Visit their website to obtain schedules for their visits to local area Petsmart locations.

Environment

• Pet Waste in The Waterways - With miles of shoreline and tidal water surrounding and encompassing Norfolk, the City of Norfolk is very concerned about pet waste runoff and its affects on the waterways. This link examines the Dept. of Public Works’ Environmental Storm Water Management Program.
• The Elizabeth River Project - The Elizabeth River Project is a grass-roots organization dedicated to cleaning up the Elizabeth River which flows through Norfolk. In addition to tackling the problems caused by big polluters, the “Project” offers tips for keeping a clean Elizabeth and Lafayette River.

Fun Stuff and Other Dog-Related Info

• Norfolk SPCA Events  - a listing of SPCA-sponsored events in the City of Norfolk;
• Lost Pets in Norfolk? - Follow this link to enter your pet in an area-wide database that may help with finding your pet.
• Norfolk Beaches - The Norfolk City Beaches are a great place to enjoy the Chesapeake Bay and let your dog play in the sand; just make sure you pay attention to any posted regulations.