505.18 TETHERING ANIMALS.

   (a)    No person shall tether an animal outdoors in any of the following circumstances:

      (1)    If a heat or cold advisory has been issued by a local or state authority or the National Weather Service;

      (2)    If a severe weather warning has been issued by a local or state authority or the National Weather Service;

      (3)    If the tether is less than twenty (20) feet in length;

      (4)    If the tether allows the animal to touch the fence or cross the property line or cross onto public property;

      (5)    If the tether is attached by means of a pinch-type, prong-type, or choke-type collar or if the collar is unsafe or is not properly fitted;

      (6)    If the tether may cause injury or entanglement;

      (7)    If the animal is not provided with its needs as identified in division (c) of Section 505.17;

      (8)    If the tether is made of a material that is unsuitable for the animal's size and weight or that causes any unnecessary discomfort to the animal;

      (9)    If no owner or occupant is present at the premises.

   (b)    As used in this section, "tether'' means a rope, chain, cord, dog run or pulley, or similar restraint for holding an animal in place, allowing a radius in which it can move about.

   (c)    Whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor on the first offense, a misdemeanor of the fourth degree on the second offense, and a misdemeanor of the first degree on the third or any subsequent offense. Notwithstanding the foregoing penalties, if an animal becomes sick or injured as a result of a violation of this section, then whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree.

(Ord. 120-2015. Passed 6-15-15.)