The Board of County Commissioners postponed a decision on proposed dog tethering restrictions on Tuesday after nearly 60 people signed up to speak at the meeting about the restrictions. Commissioners said they needed more time to consider the restrictions and public comments. The board previously delayed a decision on the restrictions on May 20.
Under the proposed restrictions, dogs could be tethered for a total of no more than three hours during a 24-hour period using a tethering device at least 10 feet in length and attached to prevent strangulation or other injury to the dog. In addition, the tethering device could not exceed 10 percent of the dog’s body weight and dogs must have access to food, water and shelter while tethered. They also include a minimum requirement for kennel size, depending on the size of the dog.
Certain organized animal functions, such as hunting events, would be exempt from the proposed restrictions.
Opponents of the restrictions argue that tethering should be considered on a case-by-case basis and that animal neglect can occur under any circumstance. Supporters maintain restrictions would improve animal quality of life and welfare.