June 23, 2015
This ordinance regulates tethering, including banning tethering during extreme weather conditions.
Chapter 8.12
Section 1.
- Pet tethering. For purposes of this subsection, “tether” means a cable, cord, or similar device used to attach an animal to a stationary device, but does not include chains. No person shall allow any animal to remain confined in such a manner as to unreasonably restrict the animal’s ability to move. No person shall allow any dog to remain tethered unless all of the following conditions are satisfied:
- The tether is not unreasonably heavy in proportion to the weight of the animal.
- A swivel is located at both ends of the tether and the tether is free of tangles.
- The collar on the animal to which the swivel is attached is properly fitted and is a collar that is commonly recognized as a pet collar (choke and pinch collars are not permitted).
- The tether is not less than fifteen feet in length.
- Chains shall be prohibited for use as a tethering device.
- The animal is not outside during a period of extreme weather, including without limitation a heat index of 95 degrees Fahrenheit (95°F) or above as determined by the National Weather Service, freezing temperatures, thunderstorms, or tornadoes.
- The animal has access to water, shelter, and dry grounds at all times, and has access to adequate food.
- The animal is at least six months of age and has a current rabies vaccination.
- The animal is not sick, injured, or in heat (estrus).
- Pulley, running line, or trolley systems are at least fifteen feet in length and are not less than six feet above ground.
- If there are multiple animals, each animal must be tethered separately.
- The tethering device shall allow the tethered dog to lie down comfortably at all positions of tether.
