July 26, 2019
https://www.akc.org/legislative-alerts/new-york-dutchess-county-considering-tethering-cruelty-registry-proposals/
Please forward to club members and dog owners in Dutchess County, NY
The Dutchess County Legislature is considering two proposals in an effort to
improve animal welfare in the county. AKC Government Relations understands
that the proposals are likely to be considered on Monday, August 12. Those who
reside or participate in performance or other events in Dutchess County are
encouraged to contact the legislature and comment (Scroll down for contact
information).
Summary:
Proposed Resolution 2019204 (Tethering Regulations) - This proposal states that
the county "finds it necessary and appropriate to adopt regulations for
tethering a canine." It further states that when a dog is tethered without
shelter, it leaves the dog susceptible to adverse weather, wild animals and
unwanted human interactions.
Under the proposal, tethering is permitted so long as certain standards are met
(including allowing the dog to move in an area not less than 125 square feet,
and ensuring that if the tether is attached to a pulley, running line, trolley
or cable system, the tether is at least 15 feet long and less than 7 feet above
the ground). Dogs tethered for more than 2 hours must have access to shelter,
and must not be exposed at any time to animal waste, garbage, or potential
attack by other animals, among other requirements.
The proposal also states that the animal cannot be tethered during any weather
alert. AKC agrees that no animal should be left outside in dangerous
conditions, but it is unclear how this would impact dogs humanely tethered that
can tolerate certain weather and conditions (for example an arctic breed that
would thrive in being outside even if there is a winter weather watch).
The proposal also states that it is not the intent to require every violator of
the proposed tethering law to register as an animal abuse offender (see next
proposal for more information). However, the court may require it for severe
first-time or persistent violators. This intent is not mentioned in Proposed
Resolution 2019205.
Proposed Resolution 2019205 (Animal Abuse Registry) - This proposal would
create a county-wide animal abuse registry for violators of certain state
animal care and cruelty laws. Violators would be banned from owning or living
with an animal for 15 years, unless it is a service or farm animal. If there
is a subsequent violation, the person will be listed for life on the registry
and permanently prohibited from owning or residing with an animal.
Violations that would require registration include crimes such as dogfighting,
poisoning, torturing, and aggravated cruelty. Other violations that would
require registration including violations of the state's ban on ear cropping,
and a violation of the state law against throwing items in a public place that
could injure an animal. Also, those who have impounded or confined an animal
and do not provide food and water every 12 hours must also register.
What You Can Do:
AKC Government Relations understands these proposals will likely be considered
on Monday, August, 12; however, the agenda has not yet been released.
Those who wish to contact the county legislature may do so at
countylegislature@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx or by phone at (845) 486-2100.
AKC and the Associated Dog Clubs of New York State will continue to closely
monitor these proposals and provide more information as it becomes available.
For questions, contact AKC GR at doglaw@xxxxxxx.
Stormy Hope
LLARTC
NAIATrust, Trustee
NAIATrust-CA on Facebook!
GSDCA Legislative Liaison to AKC
California Responsible Pet
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