10/23/2026
Plott Hounds may be North Carolina’s state dog; however, we often see other hounds such as Coonhounds, Foxhounds, and Beagles. There are so many beautiful hound dogs and we love them all!
As deer season has begun, you may see dogs running. We would like to take this time to remind everyone that most of these dogs are wearing collars with a nameplate. Their people are likely nearby and typically respond quickly to retrieve their dogs. If you are unable to make contact with the owner on the name plate and you are concerned for a dog’s safety/wellbeing, please contact Currituck Communications at 252-453-3633 so that an Animal Control Officer can be dispatched. Some dogs will be wearing a GPS tracking collar. If a blinking green light is visible, that means the collar is communicating with the GPS handheld and will help the hunter locate their dog. Please do not take the dog to another location. We have linked NC G.S. 14-401.17, regarding unlawful removal or destruction of electronic dog collars: https://www.ncleg.gov/EnactedLegislation/Statutes/PDF/BySection/Chapter_14/GS_14-401.17.pdf.
As with other working breeds, deer dogs are typically leaner than most pets. Hounds can run for miles, get dehydrated, scratched up from thorns, and a day of running can have them visibly thin. They can also get separated from the pack causing them to be lost and quickly become emaciated. Please do not feed, only offer water. Introducing too much food too quickly could actually cause harm.
As always if there are any questions or concerns please contact the shelter at 252-453-8682, or communications at 252-453-3633 to speak with an Animal Control Officer.
https://www.ncwildlife.gov/regulations/2026-2027-season-dates-glance/download?attachment
