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SB 1000

Livestock and poultry killed by dogs; increases fair market value compensation amounts.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Richard Stuart

Virginia increases compensation amounts dog owners must pay when their animals kill livestock or poultry, effective July 1, 2025.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0319)
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Bill Summary · SB 1000

Legislative bill overview

SB 1000 increases the fair market value compensation amounts that dog owners must pay when their dogs kill or injure livestock or poultry. The bill updates these statutory payment thresholds, which had not been adjusted in many years, to reflect current market prices for various animals. The measure became effective July 1, 2025.

Why is this important

Farmers and rural property owners rely on these compensation requirements to recover financial losses when dogs attack their animals. Outdated compensation amounts fail to reflect actual replacement costs, leaving livestock owners bearing significant economic losses. This update provides more equitable reimbursement and clarifies financial liability for dog owners in agricultural areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Urban-rural divide: Dog owners in suburban areas expanding into rural zones may face unexpected liability costs, potentially creating conflict between development patterns and agricultural protection
  • Compensation adequacy: Stakeholders may dispute whether the new amounts truly reflect current fair market value, with farmers potentially arguing amounts remain insufficient and dog owners claiming they're excessive
  • Enforcement burden: Local animal control and magistrate courts must adjudicate claims and determine actual damages, which can be time-consuming and contentious without clear valuation standards

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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