New city pet ordinance goes into effect in 90 days (Austin, TX)

[Rene Allegrini]

New city pet ordinance goes into effect in 90 days

7/1/2007
By: Kendra Mendez


Starting Oct. 1, a new law is going to go into effect that prohibits the chaining or tethering of dogs.

All dogs in town will have their own fenced in space. The ordinance also says owners must provide a space of at least 150 square feet for each dog or else keep them inside a home.

Owners have 90 days to find an alternative to chaining their dogs. Those who violate the law could face a fine of up to $500. Austin is one of three cities in Texas to adopt this ordinance.

"We don't want to write those tickets we really want those people to take the these 90 days to get prepared and really come up with a more positive way to take care of their dogs," Dorinda Pulliam with the Town Lake Animal Shelter said.

Pulliam said some dog owners aren't thrilled about the new law, but supporters like Lyndon Poole said the chain ban will help protect both dogs and people.

"You're going to have a lot safer neighborhoods. Children will be protected from wandering up on chained dogs and being bitten," Lyndon Poole of the Chain Free Austin said.

Animal experts said tied-up dogs often become frustrated and are more likely to be aggressive.

The Town Lake Animal Shelter is working hard to spread word about the ordinance and to educate people on the purpose.

"We're really hoping that people can see the reasons behind this and not just react to what the law is but really see what it is that we're trying to achieve and I don't know how anybody can argue with that because what we're trying to achieve is better living conditions for their pets," Pulliam said.

Fence and kennel prices vary depending on the thickness needed for the fence, the amount of material needed and your dog's size.

For more on the ordinance or to find out how to help low income families purchase fencing material log on to the Chain Free Austin's Web site.

http://www.news8austin.com/content/h...187287&SecID=2