While it’s not outright illegal in Vermont to leave your dog chained outside, the practice is highly regulated to ensure the animal’s well-being.
Vermont law sets strict guidelines on how dogs should be tethered outside to prevent cruelty and ensure their safety. Violating these laws can lead to criminal charges for animal cruelty.
Vermont’s Key Dog Tethering and Outdoor Care Laws
Vermont allows dogs to be kept on a chain or tether outside, but only under very specific conditions. If these conditions are not met, it could be considered animal cruelty. Here’s what you need to know:
Tethering Is Regulated: Tethering a dog is legal in Vermont, but only if specific requirements are met to ensure the animal’s safety and well-being[1][2][7].
Animal Cruelty: Improper tethering, or tethering in a way that endangers the dog’s health or safety, is considered cruelty to animals under Vermont law (13 V.S.A. § 352)[1][2].
Main Requirements
Length and Movement: The tether must be long enough to allow the dog to move freely. It should be at least four times the dog’s body length in any direction, so the dog can walk around, stretch, and change positions[2].
Tether Design: The tether must be specifically designed for use with dogs. For example, logging chains are not allowed. It should weigh no more than 1/8 of the dog’s body weight, and both ends of the tether must have swivels or similar devices to prevent tangling. The dog must also wear a collar or harness that is well-fitted (choke collars are not allowed)[1][2][7].
Shelter: The dog must have access to appropriate shelter that protects it from harsh weather conditions. The shelter must also allow enough space for the dog to stand, turn around, sit, and lie down comfortably[2].
No Puppies on Tethers: Dogs younger than six months cannot be tethered outside at all[1].
Safety: The method of tethering must not place the dog in a dangerous situation. This means the dog should not be in a position where it cannot escape harm or protect itself[7].
Location: The dog cannot be tethered in a way that allows it to leave the owner’s property[1].
Enforcement and Penalties
Failure to Comply: If these rules are not followed, it can be considered animal cruelty, which is a criminal offense in Vermont. Consequences may include fines and/or imprisonment[1][6][7].
Local Ordinances: Some towns in Vermont may have their own additional restrictions on tethering, so pet owners should also check for any local rules that may apply.
In Vermont, you can legally tether a dog outside, but only if you follow strict guidelines to ensure the dog’s safety, comfort, and freedom of movement. Violating these laws can lead to criminal charges for animal cruelty.
To avoid any legal trouble, pet owners should ensure they meet all requirements related to tethering, shelter, and equipment before leaving a dog chained outside.
[1] https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
[2] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/vermont/
[3] https://vermonthumane.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/How-to-Help-a-Chained-Dog.pdf
