Reading, Pennsylvania, Bans Dog Tethering - National Humane Education Society

Paws Up!

To city lawmakers in Reading, Pennsylvania, for passing an ordinance to ban dog tethering.

Why do people choose to tether their canine companions outdoors for prolonged periods of time or even 24-7?  Perhaps it is learned behavior from parents or grandparents, or the easiest solution some find to resolve unwanted or destructive behavior. Whatever the reason may be, tethering dogs outdoors for prolonged periods of time creates negative consequences for the dogs and the people who may or will come into contact with them.  

The Center for Disease Control (CDC), states that approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur throughout the United States and that chained dogs are at an increased risk for biting.  In order to reduce incidences of dog bites, and improve living conditions for dogs in a community, ordinances that restrict dog tethering or that ban dog-tethering altogether are sweeping throughout cities and states in the U.S.  According to a recent news article, lawmakers in Reading, Pennsylvania, unanimously passed an ordinance introduced by Councilman Chris Daubert that prohibits dog chaining within city limits.  The ordinance has taken effect and will be enforced based on individual complaints.  

To learn more about the adverse effects of prolonged tethering, please download our free brochure.

Take Action:  Reading, Pennsylvania, residents, contact the city council and thank them for supporting and passing this ordinance to help protect the well-being of dogs.