Mass. bill would curb how long dogs can be chained
March 3, 2012
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BOSTON—Massachusetts lawmakers are weighing a bill that would forbid pet owners from leaving their dogs tied up outside for more than eight hours at a time.
That includes being tied to a pole, tree or dog house.
The bill requires that any tether used to restrain a dog be specifically designed for pets. It would ban the use of logging chains and other types of lines.
The bill would also outlaw a dog from behind chained, tethered or confined outside between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
Penalties would range from a $100 fine for the first offense to a $300 fine and potential loss of the dog to a shelter for the third offense.
The bill is one of dozens being heard Tuesday afternoon at the Statehouse by the Judiciary Committee.
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