‘Life on a Chain is No Life At All,’ New Anti-Tethering Act Effective Today

In the ongoing attempt to stop animal abuse, the new Pennsylvania anti-tethering act, part of the recently approved Libre’s Law, is effective starting today.

The act will place reasonable limitations on continuous tethering of dogs outside.

Specifically, this law requires:

• A leash must be three times the length of the pet or 10 feet, whichever is longer.
• No tow or logged chain or pinch, choke, or prong collars used with a tether.
• A well-fitted collar and no open sores or wounds on the dog’s body.
• The lead must be on a swivel and ideally a lead that has a coated cover to avoid getting tangled.
• The area where the pet is kept must be kept clear of excessive feces with access to drinkable water and shade.
• No more than nine consecutive hours on a leash in a day’s time.
• No more than 30 minutes tied up when temperatures are lower than 32 degrees or higher than 90 degrees.

The law won’t prohibit tethering while engaged in hunting, performance events or field training, sporting events, complying with campground or recreational area rules, or when it is necessary for no more than an hour to complete a task.

Most animal lovers approve of this new law, taking to Facebook to share their excitement.

“Dog chaining/tethering should be illegal everywhere. It’s horrible! Life on a chain is no life at all,” Facebook user, Stacy King Forrester stated.

Any law enforcement or humane society officer can enforce this animal protection law. Violations range from summary offense, which essentially carries the same penalty as a traffic ticket, to a misdemeanor charge, which can carry a fine and maximum prison sentence of six to 12 months.