The Salt Lake County Council has formally approved an anti-tethering ordinance proposed by the Humane Society of Utah. The new ordinance will allow pet owners to tether a dog no more than ten (10) total hours during any given 24 hour period of time.
A unanimous (8-0) preliminary vote on December 15, 2009 was ratified during yesterdays’ Council session. The ordinance will apply to communities in unincorporated Salt Lake County and take effect in fifteen (15) days.
In addition to limiting the amount of time a dog may be tethered, the ordinance also addresses tethering under extreme weather conditions, sets a minimum tether length, and requires dogs have adequate space to make normal body movements to prevent becoming entangled.
Punishment for violating the anti-tethering ordinance ranges from a warning citation to a fine not to exceed $1,000 and/or imprisonment not to exceed six (6) months, or any other punishment a court deems appropriate.
Exceptions to the ordinance include the use of a running line/pulley system, using a dog to herd livestock and conduct work on agricultural projects, or when a dog is being walked on a leash.
Other exceptions include cases when animal services mandates a dog be restrained at all times, or when a dog owner is engaged in a lawfully liscensed hunting activity.
Humane Society of Utah Executive Gene Baierschmidt applauds the Council’s action, allowing Salt Lake County to join more than 100 jurisdictions in 30 states which have already passed similar laws. “It’s up to the public to improve the lives of chained dogs,” says Mr. Baierschmidt. “Some people might think this is none of their business, but it is the business of compassionate people to speak up when they see living creatures being treated like objects.”
The Humane Society believes extended tethering leads to extreme isolation, making dogs more likely to become aggressive. Chained dogs are also at greater risk of getting hurt as they are vulnerable to extreme weather, unable to escape attacks, and strangulation should the animal become entangled. Additionally, chained dogs tend to bark more, becoming a nuisance for neighbors.
“This law is aimed at people who tether their dog 24 hours a day,” adds Baierschmidt. “Our hope is that it serves as a deterrent, addressing community safety and the humane treatment of animals. We encourage everyone to treat pets as members of the family.”
