It Is Now Illegal to Leave Your Dog Chained Outside
IT'S ABOUT TIME:
Gov. Greg Abbott signed into law on Monday, the Senate Bill 5, otherwise known as the “Safe Outdoor Dogs” Act. This will effectively ban the use of chain tethers on dogs left outdoors and empower law enforcement officers to act quickly when they find an animal in dire conditions.
WHAT DOES THIS ACTUALLY MEAN?
As reported by expressnews.comThe new law requires dogs to have protection from the elements and a shelter that allows them enough room to turn around and lie down fully. This is long overdue! To add, the dog must have a properly-fitted collar and can’t be restrained with a chain. The dog also can’t be restrained outside and unattended unless it has:
- PROPER SHELTER
- IS ABLE TO AVOID STANDING WATER AND ANIMAL WASTE
- AMPLE SHADE
- WATER FOR DRINKING
If found in violation of these new laws, the offender will be cited with a Class C misdemeanor. If the offense is repeated it will be upgraded to a Class B misdemeanor.
VERY FEW EXCEPTIONS:
If you are camping, shepherding livestock, or putting the dog in a truck bed, or tying them up while doing a “temporary task.”
You can read the new bill in its entirety by clicking here.
DOG PARK COMING TO VICTORIA:
Victoria Parks and Recreation has recently announced that one of our great parks will likely feature a dog park in the near future. You can read more about the Victoria Parks and Rec master plan by clicking here.
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