3.2-6502 - State Veterinarian's power to inspect premises where animals are kept; investigations and search warrants. - Virginia Statutes

§ 3.2-6502. State Veterinarian's power to inspect premises where animals arekept; investigations and search warrants.

A. The State Veterinarian and each State Veterinarian's representative shallhave the power to conduct inspections of animal shelters, and inspect anybusiness premises where animals are housed or kept, including any boardingestablishment, kennel, pet shop, pound, or the business premises of anydealer, exhibitor or groomer, at any reasonable time, for the purposes ofdetermining if a violation of: (i) this chapter; (ii) any other state lawgoverning the care, control or protection of animals; or (iii) any otherstate law governing property rights in animals has occurred.

B. Provisions for investigation of suspected violations of this chapter andother laws pertaining to animals are provided in § 3.2-6564. Provisions forobtaining a warrant and the power of search for violations of animal crueltylaws are provided in § 3.2-6568.

(1993, c. 601, § 3.1-796.67:2; 1998, c. 817; 2002, c. 787; 2003, c. 1007;2008, c. 860.)