California has laws governing the tethering of dogs. As of January 1, 2007, it is illegal to tether, fasten, chain, tie, or restrain a dog to a dog house, tree, fence, or any other stationary object. This law, also known as SB 1578, aims to prevent the neglect and mistreatment of dogs that are continuously confined.
Key Points of the Law:
- Prohibition: Generally, you cannot tether a dog to a stationary object.
- Purpose: The law targets dogs that are left unattended on chains for extended periods, denying them proper interaction and exercise.
- Consequences: Violation of this law can result in an infraction or misdemeanor charges, leading to fines up to $1,000 per dog, and/or imprisonment in a county jail for up to six months.
Exceptions to the Law:
There are specific situations where tethering is permitted:
- Temporary Tasks: Tethering is allowed for a reasonable period to complete a temporary task requiring the dog’s restraint.
- Licensed Activities: Tethering is permitted while engaged in activities or training for activities conducted under a valid State of California license associated with the use or presence of a dog. This includes activities like licensed hunting.
- Working Dogs: Tethering is allowed for conduct directly related to shepherding, herding, or cultivating agricultural products, if the restraint is reasonably necessary to keep the animal safe.
- Recreational Areas: Tethering is permitted in campgrounds or recreational areas.
- Pulley Systems: The law allows dogs to be restrained with a running line, pulley, or trolley system, provided the dog isn’t tethered by a choke collar or pinch collar.
Additional Considerations:
- Local Ordinances: Some cities and counties in California may have additional restrictions on dog tethering. For example, Los Angeles was one of the first cities in California to pass a law limiting the chaining of animals by duration. Sonoma County allows fixed-point tethering for no more than 12 hours in a 24-hour period, with specific requirements for tether length, weight, and collar type.
- Basic Needs: California Penal Code section 597t mandates that confined animals have access to food, water, and shelter.
- Animal Welfare: The law recognizes that dogs are social animals that need interaction and exercise. Chained dogs may suffer from boredom and anxiety, and are more prone to aggression.
Penalties:
Unlawfully tethering a dog can be charged as either a misdemeanor or an infraction. An infraction is punishable by a fine of up to $250. A misdemeanor can result in a fine of up to $1,000 and a jail sentence of up to six months.
Sources:
[1] https://www.stanislausanimalservices.com/pdf/Anti-Chaining.pdf
[2] https://www.animallaw.info/statutes/us/california
[3] https://www.laanimalservices.com/chained-dog-tethering-laws
