It is prohibited to exclusively restrain a dog or puppy by a fixed-point chain or tether:
(A) For a period of time exceeding two hours in any eight-hour period, unless the dog is either accompanied by a competent person or a competent person periodically checks the condition of the tethered dog at no less than two hour intervals. A "competent person" is defined as a person, who, by reason of age and physical ability, and training, is capable of maintaining control of an animal to the extent required by this chapter.
(B) A dog may be restrained by a chain or tether provided that it is at least ten feet in length and attached to a pulley or trolley mounted on a cable which is also at least ten feet in length and mounted no more than seven feet above ground level.
(C) Any tethering system employed shall not allow the dog or puppy to leave the owner's property.
(D) No chain or tether shall weigh more than one-eighth of the dog or puppy's body weight.
(E) Any chain or tether shall have swivels on both ends.
(F) Any chain or tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the animal.
(G) All collars used for the purpose of chaining or tethering an animal must be made of nylon, leather, or other durable and non-metallic material. Using a chain, choke, or pinch collar as a primary collar is prohibited.
(H) All collars shall fit an animal so as to avoid causing injury to the animal or becoming imbedded in the animal's neck.
(I) The Director, with the approval of the Town Manager, may promulgate regulations implementing this section which are not inconsistent with any of the provisions of this chapter.
(Ord. 2020-G-3, passed 6-16-20)