Dog Tethering Standards of Care Legislation Is Waiting for RI Governor’s Approval - National Humane Education Society

Paws Up!
July 19, 2017

UPDATE:  Governor Raimondo signed H 5326 / S 0928 on July 28, 2017 to help improve the level of care for dogs tethered outside for prolonged periods of time.

Canine companions in Rhode Island who spend most of their lives outside at the end of a chain, may find some relief during extreme weather conditions this year. According to a recent news article, the Rhode Island Legislature has passed H 5326, introduced by Representative Joseph Solomon Jr. (D-Dist. 22) and S 0928, introduced by Senator Michael J. McCaffrey (D-Dist. 29, Warwick) that states citizens who keep their dogs outside for prolonged periods of time would be required to bring them indoors during extreme weather conditions.  Prolonged exposure to heat or cold can have detrimental effects on companion animals’ health. Some of the risks include: heat exhaustion, heat stroke, hypothermia, and frostbite. Citizens found guilty of violating the law would get a warning, but second-time offenders may face a fine up to $500 including an 11-month jail sentence. Currently, the legislation is waiting for Governor Gina Raimondo’s signature.

To learn more about the adverse effects of prolonged tethering and ways to protect your companion animals during the summer or winter months, please download our free brochures at the links.

Take Action:  Rhode Island residents, contact Governor Gina M. Raimondo and urge her to pass H 5326 / S 0928.  See an example letter below:

Governor Gina Raimondo
82 Smith Street
Providence, RI 02903

                                                                               Re: Protection for Dogs Tethered in Extreme Weather 

Dear Governor Raimondo:

My name is {Your Name} and I am a concerned, dog-loving resident of Rhode Island. I am writing to ask that you support H 5326 / S 0928 that will create a standard of care for dogs who are tethered outside for prolonged periods of time every day. This legislation would require owners to bring their dogs inside during extreme weather conditions. Our canine companions deserve our protection. Thank you for your consideration in helping to create a more humane world for our furry friends.

Respectfully,
{Your Name}