Tethering of animals to a stationary object is prohibited except for temporary tethering for recreational purposes under certain conditions.
Dogs may not be tethered to a fixed point such that its normal needs are not met.
b. Use of the dog in the business of cultivating agricultural products, if the restraining is reasonably necessary for the safety of the dog, or
Section 6-6(d) shall become effective 12 months after the adoption of this amendment. Any person who violates Section 6-6(d) after its adoption date, but prior to the 12 month period following the date of this amendment shall be issued a written warning giving the violator notice of the provisions of this amendment. The written warning shall include information about sources that provide assistance to the public with providing enclosures which do not require the dog to be tethered. Any person who violates this amendment after the expiration of the 12 month period following the date of adoption of this amendment shall be subject to the penalties established in Section 6-55, Violations and Penalties of the Forsyth County Code.
(4) The tether and cable run must be of adequate size and strength to effectively restrain the dog. The size and weight of the tether must not be excessive, as determined by the animal services officer, considering the age, size and health of the dog.
How should dogs be confined and restrained safely?
The Humane Society of the United States believes that dogs are part of the family. We recommend that all dogs live indoors, receive regular exercise and are provided with adequate attention, food, water and veterinary care. Dogs living outdoors part or all of the time should be provided with a safe, escape-proof enclosure with proper shelter, where they may express natural behaviors.
To become well-adjusted companion animals, dogs should interact regularly with people and other animals and should receive regular exercise. Sometimes situations with tethered dogs can be improved incrementally, such as by bringing the dog indoors at night at least, so advocates should be open to options. Placing an animal on a restraint can be acceptable if it is done for a short period or while supervised and if the tether is secured in such a way that it cannot become entangled with other objects. Collars should be comfortable and fitted properly; choke chains should never be used. Keeping an animal tethered for long periods or during extreme weather and disasters is never acceptable.
What is meant by “chaining” or “tethering” dogs?
Generally speaking, the terms “chaining” and “tethering” refer to the practice of fastening a dog to a stationary object and leaving them unattended. The term “chaining” tends to refer to situations where thick, heavy chains are used. “Tethering” is more often referred to partial restraint on a rope, lighter chain or pulley, which is the more prevalent form of tethering. These terms are not meant to refer to an animal being walked on a leash or cases of supervised, temporary tethering while an owner is present.