Monroe puts in new rules for tethering dogs

MONROE, N.C. — There are new rules over tethering your dog in Monroe.

You can’t tie your dog to a tree, fence, post, house, or any other object unless you meet certain restrictions, according to the Monroe Police Department.

Police say if you want to tie your dog while it’s outside, you must have the following conditions at all times:

Tethered dog is in visible range of the owner/keeper and the owner/keeper is outside with the dog.
A person may use a hand-held leash for controlling a dog and is exempt from these requirements.
A tether must be equipped with swivel on both ends.
A tether must be a minimum of 10 feet in length of either metal chain or coated steel cable.
Tether must be attached to buckle-type collar or harness. It cannot be placed directly around a dog’s neck and cannot be used with choke or pinch-style collars.
Weight of the tether must be sufficient to prevent breakage but not exceeding 10% of dog’s body weight.
Tether must allow the dog a reasonable and unobstructed range of motion.
Must allow access to adequate food, water, and shelter.

Police said only dogs over 4 months old can be tethered, and only one dog can be attached to a single tether.

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If you’re caught breaking the policy, you could be fined up to $500. City officials said they hope neighbors will spread the word about the ordinance “so that enforcement is not necessary.”

MPD said an animal control officer “may order a more restrictive tethering requirement if circumstances require and is not detrimental to the welfare of the dog.”

You can find the city of Monroe’s dog ordinances at this link.

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