Virginia Law

Primary conveyances used in transporting companion animals shall meet the following provisions:

1. The cargo space of primary conveyances used in transporting companion animals shall be constructed to protect their health and ensure their safety and comfort;

2. The cargo space shall be constructed and maintained in a manner to prevent the ingress of engine exhaust fumes and gases from the primary conveyance during transport;

3. The cargo space shall have a supply of air sufficient for normal breathing for each animal contained therein, and the primary enclosure shall be positioned in such a manner that each animal has access to sufficient air for normal breathing;

4. Temperatures in primary conveyances shall not exceed 75°F for more than 45 minutes without supplemental ventilation through natural or automatic ventilation or air conditioning nor fall below 45°F without auxiliary heat, unless the animals are accompanied by a certificate of acclimation to lower temperatures signed by an accredited veterinarian not more than 10 days prior to shipment, or unless the well-being of the confined animal mandates temperature maintenance above this range;

5. Primary enclosures containing companion animals shall be positioned in the primary conveyance in such a manner that in an emergency the animals can be removed;

6. The interior of the animal cargo space shall be kept clean;

7. Companion animals shall not be transported with any material, substance, or device in such a way that can injure their health or well-being; and

8. Vehicles used by dealers, auction sales, exhibitors, and pet shops to carry companion animals shall be enclosed, including but not limited to, vans, station wagons, and pick-up trucks equipped with camper shells, so that:

a. All sides and top are covered;

b. Adequate ventilation is assured by the use of screens or ventilation systems;

c. The vehicle is insulated to provide protection from weather extremes or has an automatic heating/cooling system.