VFHS Rescue Certification Program
The VFHS Rescue Certification Program provides guidelines for home based rescues, certifies that they are in compliance with state regulations and compiles a state-wide data base of rescues around the state of Virginia.
How does the Certification process work? The first step is to complete the Certification Application Form along with the Document Check List and appropriate documents. Once the form is submitted to VFHS, you will be contacted to schedule a review of the documents and schedule an onsite evaluation.
What is the benefit of VFHS Certification? VFHS is providing pounds and shelters with packets informing them of the VFHS Certification Program. We are encouraging them to use the Certification to trust that they can release their animals to certified rescues and do so with a minimum of paperwork. If they check on the VFHS website to verify that a rescue organization is certified, they do not need to do their own verification of documentation and they can rely on the data base to release their animals to that rescue.
Does the rescue need to provide the pound or shelter with documentation? The only documentation a rescue should need to provide to the pounds and shelters is a copy of the VFHS Certificate and a list of the people who are authorized to sign transfer documents and transport animals. Authorized Transporter Form
Does it cost anything to be certified? Certification is free to VFHS members and is valid for two (2) years. The cost of certification for non-members is $100 for a two (2) year certification.
What are the requirements of an onsite evaluation? The Onsite Evaluation Form lists the documentation and physical environment criteria. The criteria is based on the knowledge that rescues operate out of their homes and takes that into consideration.
If we fail a criteria of the evaluation, does that mean we won’t be certified?
The approach of the certification is to work with rescues, support their efforts and provide them with input and tools as needed. If items on the evaluation are not in compliance, we let the rescue know, work with them to get into compliance and help them to become certified if possible.
The VFHS Certification Program has been reviewed by the office of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS).
If you have questions and want to talk to someone about the program, please contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call us at 540-984-3147.