Humane Society Calls Chaining of Dogs “inhumane,” but is it Illegal?

Washington, DC: Continuous chaining of dogs causes psychological and physical problems. It has been well documented that chained dogs can become aggressive; they have the same “fight- or- flight” instinct that humans possess, without the “flight” option. Unfortunately, without that option, even the most gentle dog will try and defend itself against perceived attacks. In addition, many dogs have been injured or killed by becoming entangled with their tethers. The neck area of a chained dog is usually rough and chafed; damage to vocal chords is often noted due to the constant struggle to rid themselves of their confinement.

The Humane Society states that chained dogs are typically shown minimal attention and easily become a mere part of the “scenery.” These chained animals are also forced to urinate and defecate in the very space in which they sleep and eat. The area they are chained to is usually devoid of any grass, due to the constant pacing of the neglected dog. Dogs are pack animals. Forced to live in solitude, they often become nervous, and with no outlet for physical activity, pacing is all they can possibly do to help themselves. The area they “live” in is usually muddy and filthy. Typically left out in all manner of weather conditions and with limited human contact, these animals become depressed or overly territorial, making them difficult to approach. They are then labeled aggressive; through no fault of their own, and are often put down. This is a tragedy, as these dogs are wonderful animals forced to live in horriffic conditions; watching life go on around them with no hope of becoming a part of it.

In many states, laws have been passed outlawing the chaining of dogs. In Georgetown, (Washington, DC) chaining a dog became a misdemeanor in 2008. However, laws vary in the surrounding areas. In Virginia and Maryland, chaining is not prohibited but there are requirements that must be met so as not to constitute animal cruelty. As of today, many citizens are organizing and demanding their local officals outlaw chaining. Jessica Lappin, Councilwoman, is sponcering a bill in New York that would limit the amount of time a dog may remain chained, along with other restrictions, including fines:

“This bill is a win-win. It gives New Yorkers a financial incentive to do the right thing. And, it will raise funds to reduce the number of unwanted animals in our city,” Upper East Side Councilwoman Jessica Lappin, who sponsored the legislation, said in a statement. www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/01/19/dog-law_n_810851.html

Recently, the “Coalition to Unchain Dogs” has spread to the DC area..They help low-income families by providing fences so that their pets may be “unchained.” For more information, please visit their website at www.unchaindogs.net .

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