What Should You Do if Your Pet is Bitten

  1. Wash the wound(s) thoroughly with warm soapy water and contact your doctor or veterinarian.
  2. Make note of the location of the incident and provide as many details possible of the animal (ex: species, breed, size, if the animal had a collar).
  3. Call the local Animal Control Officer through the Sherrif’s Department (see phone list below) and the BRHD Environmental Health Line at 434-972-6219.  There are emergency contacts at both departments available every day who can respond promptly to guide you as to next steps to take.
Last Updated: January 14, 2026