505.072 TETHERING ANIMALS.

   (a)    No person shall tether an animal outdoors under 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 ten (10) feet in length;

      (4)    If the tether allows the animal to reach, crawl or burrow under any fence or cross the property line onto the property of another, private or public, including but not limited to, sidewalks, driveways, and roadways;

      (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 causes or may cause injury or entanglement for the tethered animal or any other animal present;

      (7)    If the animal is not provided with or the tether prevents access to, it's needs as identified in Sections 505.07 and 505.071 ;

      (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, occupant or their agent or designee 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 and allowing a radius in which it can move about.

   (c)   Whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor on a first offense, a misdemeanor of the fourth degree for a second offense, and a misdemeanor of the first degree for a third or 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. 230418-25. Passed 5-16-23.)