Paws Up!
September 11, 2020
To Robert Riojas for contacting Representative Mickey Dollens to help create change for tethered dogs in Oklahoma.
Throughout the United States, countless dogs are living at the end of a chain. Sadly, many suffer and perish due to limited or non-existent laws, as in Lily’s tragic death in Las Vegas. In order to help prevent more deaths, like Lily’s, it is imperative to advocate for stricter laws to be passed. Your voice makes a difference. A phone call, letter, or email to your local or state representative may be the one needed to help ignite leaders to create change on behalf of animals.
One Oklahoman did just that. Robert Riojas spoke up for tethered dogs in his state, after finding a loose dog wandering around in his yard. That day changed the pit bull mix’s life, and possibly others like her forever. Robert Riojas was appalled as he watched the friendly dog drag a huge towing chain behind her. It was tightly padlocked around her neck without a collar. Rather than ignore her, he came to her aid and called the Oklahoma City Animal Welfare. Then he went a step further by calling Representative Mickey Dollens (D-District 93) to find out how to prevent owners from using cruel practices, like heavy chains, to tether their dogs.
In response to Riojas’ phone call, Representative Dollens is working toward advocating for a state-wide ban on heavy chains and other forms of extremely heavy tethers. Oklahoma does not have any restrictions or regulations regarding tethered dogs. Robert Riojas’ choice to help the dog, now named Lucky, could be the turning point for chained dogs all across Oklahoma to create a more humane world. Lucky, the once chained dog, received her happy ending when Robert Riojas adopted her.
Take Action: Oklahomans contact your legislator to show your support to create stricter laws to help protect dogs, like Lucky, who live their lives tethered 24/7. If you reside in District 93, please contact Representative Mickey Dollens to show your support and thank him for pursuing tethering restrictions.