The HSUS strongly
recommends that all pets be kept indoors with the family. We do not
discourage pet owners from letting their dogs spend time outside, as long as
the animals are supervised and under control at all times. But leaving a dog
outside for long periods, especially if he or she is chained or otherwise
tethered, can be physically, emotionally, and behaviorally detrimental. Dogs
need companionship, care, exercise, and attention.
Tethering or otherwise leaving a dog outside for an extended period
without supervision not only deprives the animal of these things, but can
also lead to behavior problems (including aggression). It may place the dog
in serious physical danger: A confined or tethered dog is unable to escape
the harsh effects of weather (heat, cold, storms, etc.), attack by other
animals, or theft or abuse by humans. The HSUS receives countless calls and
letters from pet owners and neighbors about dogs who have died from exposure
or been stolen, abused, or even killed while left tied outside.
If you are concerned about a dog who is frequently tethered or otherwise
left outside without proper shelter, food, or water, please contact your
local humane society or animal control agency. A growing number of
anti-cruelty laws and ordinances include "adequate care standards" that make
it illegal to keep a dog outside without proper shelter in inclement weather
or dangerous temperatures. (A few communities have even enacted ordinances
prohibiting the tethering of dogs.)
Your local animal care and control organization will be familiar with the
laws and ordinances that apply to your particular area and situation. Even
if the dog's owner is not violating any laws, an animal control officer or
cruelty investigator may be able to persuade and empower the dog owner to
take steps to improve the situation. In some instances, persuading the
individual to voluntarily give up the dog is the best solution for the
animal.
You can find the name and number of your local humane organization or
animal control agency by checking the Yellow Pages under "animal shelter,"
"humane society," or "animal control," or by calling Information.
If you are interested in getting a law enacted to ban the practice of
tethering in your community, or if you would like to strengthen other animal
protection laws already in place, please contact The HSUS at 2100 L Street
NW, Washington, D.C. 20037; 202-452-1100.
