How do you keep your dog confined if fixed-point tethering violates the ordinance? 

In an effort to provide for the humane treatment of companion animals and to increase public safety, the Louisville Metro Council approved an ordinance against fixed-point chaining. Dogs can not be confined to a chain attached to a dog house, tree, or any other fixed-point between the hours of 8 am and 6 pm, and only for one hour between 6 pm and 8 am. This law ensures that animals are not being left outside without supervision or companionship for extended periods of time. Some of our worst abuse cases and bite cases are the result of chaining and resulting neglect.

If you have an animal that must be confined but you can not confine him or her with a fence, we suggest that you install a trolley system. You can get complete instructions for installing this type of system at this webpage: www.unchainyourdog.org. Choose the link on the left side that says "Build a trolley system"

If you have an animal that escapes from your fence, this trolley system will also help your escape artist stay home. You might consider having the dog altered as well. Dogs tend to roam less when they have been altered because they are no longer compelled to seek out mates.

Don't forget that there is also a leash law for companion animals in the city and county. All pets must be confined to your personal property at all times unless they are properly restrained with a leash. This includes cats! Finally, remember that your pet is also required to be licensed and have tags affixed to his or her collar when out of your home.

For more information on chaining and leash laws, you can visit the following links:

What would happen without leash laws? Follow this link to consider how our freedoms to have our pets with us in public could be curtailed if we fail to respect the rights of non-pet owners.

For more information on chaining and public safety, visit Dogs Deserve Better and Mothers Against Chaining.