Oklahoma does not currently have a comprehensive statewide law that explicitly bans or tightly regulates the chaining or tethering of dogs and other pets outside. However, there are important developments, proposed legislation, and local ordinances that pet owners should be aware of.
Statewide Law and Legislative Efforts
- As of 2022, Oklahoma did not have a statewide law specifically prohibiting or restricting the tethering of dogs. However, House Bill 1580 (HB 1580) was introduced to address this issue. The bill proposed several significant restrictions:
- Dogs could not be chained or tethered outside, unattended, for longer than five hours between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
- No dog younger than six months could be tethered outside for any length of time.
- Tethers must be designed for dogs and not weigh more than one-eighth of the dog’s body weight.
- It would be illegal to tether dogs during severe weather or when weather advisories are issued.
- Dogs must have access to clean water and appropriate shelter at all times.
- The bill also prohibited the use of logging chains or other inappropriate devices, and banned leaving dogs in filthy or hazardous conditions.
- The bill was inspired by cases of animal neglect and aimed to protect dogs from inhumane treatment. Penalties for violations could range from warnings to fines up to $500, and repeat offenders could lose custody of their dogs.
- As of the latest updates, HB 1580 had not yet become law, but advocacy for its passage continues.
Local Ordinances: City-Specific Laws
Several Oklahoma cities have enacted their own regulations that are stricter than state law:
Norman, Oklahoma
- It is unlawful to keep a dog or cat tethered outside unless the animal is continually supervised by its owner or a responsible adult.
- Tethering is prohibited when the temperature is not between 35°F and 85°F.
- Exemptions can be granted by Animal Welfare Officers.
Lawton, Oklahoma
- No person may fasten, chain, or tie any dog on their property or their landlord’s property at any time, unless specifically authorized by an animal welfare officer.
Animal Cruelty Laws
- Even in areas without specific tethering ordinances, Oklahoma’s general animal cruelty laws apply. Law enforcement or animal control may intervene if a chained animal is suffering from neglect, lack of shelter, or is in danger due to weather or unsafe conditions.
Key Points for Pet Owners
- Check Local Laws: Many cities, such as Norman and Lawton, have their own tethering bans or restrictions that are enforceable and may be stricter than state law.
- Supervision and Shelter: Even where tethering is not outright banned, dogs must not be left unsupervised for extended periods, must have proper shelter, and must not be exposed to extreme weather.
- Equipment: Tethers must be appropriate for the animal-no heavy chains or devices not designed for dogs.
- Weather Restrictions: Proposed laws and some city ordinances prohibit tethering during extreme weather or when advisories are issued.
- Penalties: Violating tethering ordinances or animal cruelty laws can result in warnings, fines, or even removal of the animal from the owner’s custody.
Tethering Laws in Oklahoma
| Area | Tethering Allowed? | Key Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Statewide (proposed) | Not explicitly banned | HB 1580 proposes limits on time, weather, age, equipment |
| Norman | Only with supervision | Banned outside 35–85°F, must be supervised |
| Lawton | Generally not allowed | Only with animal welfare officer authorization |
| General (cruelty) | Subject to cruelty laws | Must provide shelter, water, and safe conditions |
While Oklahoma does not yet have a comprehensive statewide ban on chaining pets outside, several cities have enacted strict local ordinances, and a statewide bill (HB 1580) has been proposed to address the issue. Pet owners should always check their local ordinances, ensure their animals have proper shelter and supervision, and avoid chaining pets during extreme weather. Violations can result in fines, legal action, and loss of pet ownership rights.
Sources:
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/norman-oklahoma/
- https://www.southwestledger.news/news/house-bill-would-set-rules-keeping-dog-outdoors
- https://www.nhes.org/oklahoma-is-advocating-for-tethered-dogs/
- https://www.nhes.org/a-chained-dog-in-oklahoma-brings-to-light-the-inhumane-practices-of-tethering/
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/tethering-lawton-oklahoma/
