Dog Tether Ban For Vote In Irving, Texas

November 5, 2007

In Irving, Texas last night, a progressive law was passed that bans tethering dogs for any period of time – if an owner is not present.

A state law on the issue that went into effect in September is a scaled down version of the Irving law – but city officials say they want to push the movement forward.

A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says tethered dogs are three times more likely to attack. They become territorial when confined to one space.

The ban makes it a class C misdemeanor, with a maximum fine of $2,000. It makes it illegal to tether unattended dogs.

The law does not apply to hand held leashes, veterinary visits, grooming, training and law enforcement activities.

Opponents of the ban include the American Kennel Club, who says the ban curbs trainers' ability to train their dogs.

Irving law enforcement says it won't enforce the ban until January 1 – they need time to get the word out.

Do you think tethering should be illegal?

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