In Texas, leaving a dog chained or tethered outside is illegal under state law unless specific conditions are met. Here’s a breakdown of the regulations:
Statewide Restrictions (House Bill 948)
- Prohibited Restraints:
- Chains, weighted tethers, or zip lines are banned for unattended outdoor tethering.
- Collars must be properly fitted (non-pinch, non-choke) and not embedded in the dog’s skin.
- Tethering Requirements (if temporary):
- The restraint must be at least 10 feet long or five times the dog’s length (whichever is greater).
- Dogs must have access to:
- Clean water
- Adequate shelter (protection from sun, rain, and extreme temperatures)
- Shade during daylight hours.
- Extreme Weather:
- Dogs cannot be left outside unattended if temperatures fall below 32°F or during severe weather (e.g., hurricanes, ice storms).
- Penalties:
- First offense: Class C misdemeanor (up to $500 fine).
- Repeat offenses: Class B misdemeanor (up to $2,000 fine and 180 days in jail).
Local Ordinances
Cities like San Antonio enforce stricter rules:
- Dogs cannot be tethered at all with chains, even temporarily.
- Balcony/patio confinement is prohibited unless the dog has shelter and is monitored.
Exceptions
- Working livestock dogs on ranches/farms.
- Dogs supervised for brief periods (e.g., during a cookout) if restraint meets state standards.
Enforcement
- Report violations to local animal control or law enforcement. Under Texas law, authorities can intervene immediately without a 24-hour waiting period.
- In extreme cases, Good Samaritan laws allow bystanders to rescue neglected animals (e.g., breaking a car window).
Leaving a dog chained outside without meeting these requirements risks fines, legal action, and potential animal removal. Always prioritize humane containment methods like secure fencing or supervised tethering.
Sources:
- https://www.texastribune.org/2021/10/25/abbott-texas-dog-bill/
- https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2021/10/29/chaining-a-dog-outside-will-be-illegal-in-texas-starting-in-2022/
- https://guides.sll.texas.gov/animal-law/pets
- https://www.mysanantonio.com/life/pets/article/Safe-Outdoor-Dogs-Texas-law-forbid-tether-chain-16776404.php
