Effective September 1, all laws passed by the Texas Legislature this spring will go into effect, including many that will improve the lives of animals in Texas. Among them is HB 1411, which addresses the UNLAWFUL RESTRAINT OF DOGS, commonly known as the chaining or tethering of dogs. In general, it is now against the law to leave a dog chained up between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.; for longer than 3 hours; when the temperature is below 32 degrees; or during a heat advisory or tornado warning.
The new law also addresses the length of a restraint—at least 10 feet or fives times the length of the dog—and the types of collars that cannot be used.
If you know of someone who is violating this new law, contact Animal Services or call 911 immediately. YOU can make a difference in the quality of life for a neglected dog. For a printable copy of the entire law, click here.
The new law also addresses the length of a restraint—at least 10 feet or fives times the length of the dog—and the types of collars that cannot be used.
If you know of someone who is violating this new law, contact Animal Services or call 911 immediately. YOU can make a difference in the quality of life for a neglected dog. For a printable copy of the entire law, click here.
The dog in this picture? She's been chained in East Texas all her life, but thanks to some hard-working local rescuers, she'll soon be safe in the arms of Homeward Bound Animal Rescue and looking for a new family who'll help her start life over.
-Rebecca
