DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF News) – A new law that animal activists applaud as increased protection for dogs took effect in Texas Tuesday.
The Safe Outdoor Dogs Act is a law that prohibits the manner in which outdoor dogs can be restrained.
Now, owners must abide by these rules or face penalties.
- The dogs must have access to adequate shelter from extreme temperatures, inclement weather and standing water. Before, the law there were no specifications and tethered dogs often died from exposure.
- Dogs must have access to drinkable water. This was not a stipulation before the SODA.
- The dogs must have safe restraints and bans the use of chains. Cable tie-outs may be used so long as they are correctly attached to a collar or harness designed to restrain a dog.
- The law removes a 24-hour waiting period previously required that prevented animal control or law enforcement officers from taking immediate action.
Those found in violation of the law could be charged with a misdemeanor and fined up to $500.
Numerous animal rights groups, such as the SPCA of Texas said it plans to provide resources to pet owners so they may be in compliance with the new law.
“We’ll help build outdoor dog runs for owners so that they no longer have to restrain their dogs, maybe they don’t have a fence. We’ll also provide pet food assistance so if somebody’s fallen on a hardship and they can’t afford to pay for pet food…we’re going to provide that,” said the Madeline Yeaman Arnold SPCA of Texas Senior Marketing Specialist.
Click here to read more about the law.
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