In Delaware, it is not entirely illegal to leave your pet chained outside, but there are strict regulations governing this practice. The state has implemented laws to protect dogs from inhumane tethering conditions and prolonged outdoor confinement. Here’s what the law says:
Tethering Restrictions
- Dogs cannot be tethered for more than 9 consecutive hours while the owner or a responsible adult is home.
- When the owner or a responsible adult is not home, dogs cannot be tethered for more than 2 hours.
- Tethers must be at least 10 feet long and allow the dog convenient access to food, water, and shelter.
- It is illegal to use choke, pinch, prong, or martingale collars for tethering.
Weather-Related Restrictions
- Dogs cannot be left outside and unattended for more than 15 minutes during National Weather Service hazardous weather advisories or warnings.
- This restriction applies to both tethered dogs and those in yards.
Shelter Requirements
- When outside, dogs must have access to proper shelter that is:
- Structurally sound with no sharp edges
- Moisture-proof and windproof
- Raised above the ground
- Appropriately sized for the dog
- Additional bedding and a windbreak at the entrance are required from November 1 to March 31 or when temperatures drop below 35°F.
Penalties for Violations
- First violation: $100 fine
- Second violation: $250 fine
- Subsequent violations: $500 fine
Additional Considerations
- Dogs under four months old and nursing mothers with puppies present cannot be tethered at all.
- The law also requires access to fresh drinking water, adequate food, and a clean environment.
While not completely banned, these regulations significantly limit the circumstances under which a dog can be left chained outside in Delaware. The law aims to ensure the safety and well-being of dogs while still allowing for reasonable outdoor time.
Sources
- https://whyy.org/articles/new-delaware-law-sets-time-limit-on-keeping-dogs-tied-up-outside/
- https://legis.delaware.gov/SessionLaws?volume=82&chapter=238
- https://whyy.org/articles/new-delaware-law-aims-to-reduce-length-of-time-dogs-can-be-tethered-outside/
- https://animalservices.zeuslogic.com/getFile?path=attachments&file=619d203c6d9ff_Delaware-Dog-Laws-2020_Final-1.pdf
- https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
