Tennessee has a combination of state and local laws that regulate the chaining or tethering of dogs outdoors. These laws are designed to protect animal welfare while also considering public safety and responsible pet ownership. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you need to know if you’re a Tennessee dog owner.
Statewide Laws on Tethering and Animal Cruelty
Tennessee’s state law does not have a blanket ban on tethering, but it does criminalize certain forms of restraint that cause harm or neglect:
- It is a crime to knowingly tie, tether, or restrain a dog in a manner that results in the dog suffering bodily injury, which includes cuts, bruises, burns, physical pain, or impairment.
- Failing to provide necessary food, water, care, or shelter is also considered animal cruelty, a Class A misdemeanor. A second or subsequent conviction is a Class E felony.
These statutes mean that while tethering is not outright illegal, it must never result in harm or unreasonable risk to the animal’s health or safety.
Proposed and Recent Legislation
Recent legislative efforts have sought to strengthen protections for tethered dogs, particularly during severe weather:
- Bills such as H.B.2860 would make it illegal to leave dogs chained outside during extreme weather events (e.g., tornado warnings, flooding, or during evacuation orders). Violations could result in a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by up to a month in jail and a $50 fine.
- Some proposed amendments have sparked debate, especially those that would remove exemptions for hunting or working dogs, or that might criminalize safe restraint during emergencies.
Local Ordinances: Stricter Rules in Some Cities
Many Tennessee cities have their own, often stricter, tethering ordinances. Here are some examples:
Red Bank
- Dogs cannot be tied to a stationary object for more than 30 minutes without supervision.
- Tethering must not create unhealthy or dangerous situations for the animal or others.
- Tethers must not weigh more than one-fifth of the animal’s body weight, and choke/prong collars are prohibited for tethering.
- No tethering is allowed between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
Chattanooga
- Tethering for more than a “reasonable period” or in a way that endangers the animal or others is unlawful.
- Tethering must not allow the dog to leave the owner’s property or be subject to harassment, and only properly fitted harnesses or collars may be used.
Johnson City
- Tethering to a fixed post is only allowed if the dog is attended.
- Tethers must be less than 10% of the dog’s weight, and only one dog per trolley system.
- As of 2021, no dog may be tethered or chained and left unattended.
Crossville
- Only spiral tie-out stakes or anchors allowing 360-degree movement are permitted.
- Tethering is prohibited during extreme or severe weather unless the animal has access to adequate shelter and protection.
- Dogs under six months, sick, injured, pregnant, or nursing cannot be tethered.
Common Requirements Across Local Laws
- Supervision: Dogs generally cannot be left tethered for long periods without supervision.
- Collar Types: Choke, prong, and pinch collars are not allowed for tethering.
- Tether Weight and Length: Tethers must be lightweight relative to the dog’s size and allow for freedom of movement.
- Shelter, Food, and Water: Tethered dogs must always have access to shelter, food, and water.
- Weather Restrictions: Tethering during severe weather or extreme temperatures is often prohibited.
- Age and Health Restrictions: Puppies, sick, or pregnant dogs are typically not allowed to be tethered.
Penalties for Violations
- Penalties for violating tethering laws range from fines to jail time, especially if the dog suffers harm or is left in dangerous conditions.
Key Takeaways for Tennessee Dog Owners
- Always supervise your dog if it is tethered outside, and never leave it chained for extended periods.
- Ensure proper shelter, food, and water are available at all times.
- Do not tether dogs during severe weather or when evacuation orders are in effect.
- Check your local ordinances for specific rules, as many Tennessee cities have stricter requirements than the state law.
- Avoid using prohibited collars and ensure the tether is suitable for your dog’s size and weight.
By following these guidelines and staying informed about both state and local laws, you can help ensure your pet’s safety and avoid legal trouble.
Sources:
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/tennessee/red-bank-tennessee/
- https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/tennessee-take-action-oppose-unfavorably-amended-tethering-bill/
- https://crossvillenews1st.com/tn-law-would-make-it-illegal-to-leave-dogs-chained-outside-in-severe-weather/
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/tennessee/
- https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
