In New York, the legality of leaving pets chained outside is governed by specific laws that vary between state and local jurisdictions. While there are no statewide prohibitions against tethering dogs, New York City has enacted strict regulations regarding this practice.
New York City Tethering Law
Under New York City law, it is illegal to tether or chain a dog to a stationary object outdoors for longer than three continuous hours within any twelve-hour period. When tethering is permitted, owners must ensure that the dog has adequate food, water, and shelter. Additionally, the tethering device must be appropriate for the animal’s size and should not be a choke or pinch collar. Violations of this law can result in fines up to $250 for a first offense and up to $500 or imprisonment for subsequent offenses within a year.
Statewide Context
Despite New York City’s regulations, there is currently no statewide law prohibiting the chaining of dogs outside. This leaves many areas without protections for animals left tethered for extended periods. Advocates argue that chaining can lead to severe psychological distress and physical injuries for dogs, such as collar-related wounds and exposure to harsh weather conditions.
Proposed Legislation
Efforts have been made to introduce statewide legislation aimed at banning the practice of chaining dogs altogether. Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal has introduced bills multiple times since 2013 to prohibit chaining dogs outdoors between 7 PM and 6 AM. However, these bills have not yet passed into law. The most recent version was introduced in January 2025, reflecting ongoing advocacy for stronger protections for pets in New York.
Local Regulations
Some localities within New York State have established their own rules regarding tethering. For instance, Ulster County prohibits tethering a dog for more than five consecutive hours in a twenty-four-hour period and mandates that tethered dogs must not be exposed to cruel conditions. These local laws aim to address the welfare of pets but highlight the inconsistency across different regions in the state.
Implications for Pet Owners
Pet owners in New York should be aware of their local laws regarding tethering and ensure compliance to avoid penalties. While New York City offers some protections, many regions lack comprehensive regulations. The absence of statewide legislation means that many dogs remain vulnerable to neglectful practices associated with long-term chaining.
While it is illegal to leave pets chained outside for extended periods in New York City, similar protections do not exist at the state level or in many local jurisdictions. Advocacy continues for more robust laws that would protect animals from the harmful effects of tethering across New York State. Pet owners should remain informed about both city and local regulations to ensure the well-being of their animals.
Sources:
[1] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/tethering-new-york-city-new-york/
[2] https://www.speciesunite.com/chained-dogs-petition
[3] https://ecode360.com/29552286
[4] https://www.animallaw.info/statute/ny-dogs-consolidated-dog-laws
