This ordinance prohibits the chaining or tethering of animals to a stationary object for a period of time or under conditions that could harm the animal and requires that the tether be at least 8 feet long, have a swivel on one end, and be attached to a properly fitting harness or collar.
Sec. 6-3. Animal Cruelty
(1) Animal Cruelty: In addition to what is prohibited by NC State Statute the following shall be prohibited:
(2) Chaining or tethering an animal to a stationary object for a period of time or under conditions that are harmful or potentially harmful to the animal. Examples of improper chaining or tethering include, but are not limited to, the following:
a. Using a length or weight of a chain or tether that is not appropriate for the size, weight, and age of the animal.
b. Using a chain or tether than is less than (8) eight feet in length and/or does not have swivels on one end. All chains or tethers must be attached to the animal by means of a properly
fitting harness or collar.
c. Allowing an animal to be chained or tethered such that the animal is not confined to the owner’s property or such that the chain or tether can become entangled and prevent the animal from moving about freely, lying down comfortably or having access to adequate food, water and shelter.
d. Using a chain of any type as a primary collar. All collars used for the purpose of chaining or tethering an animal must be made of nylon or leather. Choke chains are intended for training purposes only and not to be used as a collar to tie the animal to a chain or tether made of rope, twine, cord, or similar material.
e. When it has been determined that an animal is housed or restrained less than (15) fifteen feet from a public street, road, sidewalk, or rite of passage constitutes a public nuisance, but the animal is not in the street, road, sidewalk, or rite of passage, the Animal Control Officer shall issue a notice to the owner directing the owner to move the animal. If the animal is found on a public street, road, sidewalk, or rite of passage and the owner is not at home or refuses to remove the animal from the street, road, sidewalk, or rite of passage, the animal may be seized and impounded.
