HANOVER COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- All dogs in Hanover County must be kept on a leash when leaving their owners' property starting April 1, according to county leaders. In a Wednesday, April 1 press release, county officials announced that the new mandate expands the current leash law, which already req uires that all dogs be leashed year-round in suburban areas. The rule will now apply to rural areas from April 1 until June 30. County leaders said the change is intended to protect vulnerable newborn farm animals from roaming dogs and reduce the risk of rabies exposure, which has been spiking in surrounding areas, including Henrico County. Officials said rabies cases typically increase during these three months. The county added that unleashed dogs found off their owner’s property will be taken to the animal shelter. Dogs found unleashed off their owner’s property will be impounded and owners will be charged a $25 fee for the first violation.  Owners will face a $10 penalty for each following violation within 12 months. A $5 daily boarding fee will also apply. To report an unleashed dog, call Hanover County Emergency Communications at 804-365-6140. If an animal poses an immediate threat, call 911. ...read more read less