Bloodhound puppy got loose. Neighbor Shot and killed.

[Oneye]

I realize that my puppy was considered a "Dog at Large" and I was cited. My question is this? Neighbor said puppy chasing his chickens so he shot and killed. His chickens run everywhere in the middle of the county road.. He has no coupe or pens. Is there a state law or ordinance requiring him to keep his chickens up as I am required to keep my dog? Thank you for any assistance..

[Kernighan]

Virginia does not have state laws prohibiting dogs or poultry from running at large. However, state law does permit localities to enact such ordinances under sections 3.2-6539 and 3.2-6544 of the Code of Virginia. You will have to check your county's ordinances to determine if the owner of the chickens is required to restrict their movement.

Section 3.2-6552 of the Code of Virginia authorizes anyone who witnesses a dog killing or injuring livestock or poultry to kill the dog on sight. Interestingly (to me, at least), is the same law actually requires a law enforcement officer to immediately kill any dog in the act of killing or injuring livestock or poultry.

Many localities in Virginia make their ordinances available online, and a quick Internet search should reveal what responsibilities the owner of the chickens has in this case.