Poland, Ohio

618.056   TETHERING OF DOGS.

(a)   No person shall tether an animal in any of the following circumstances:

(1)   For more than six hours total in a 24 hour period and not more than two consecutive hours with no less than a one hour period between tetherings;

(2)   Between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.;

(3)   During a heat or cold advisory issued by a local or state authority or the National Weather Service;

(4)   If a severe weather warning has been issued by a local or state authority or the National Weather Service;

(5)   If the tether is less than three – five times the length of the dog as measured from nose to tail;

(6)   If the tether allows the animal to touch the fence or cross the property line or cross onto public property;

(7)   If the tether is attached by means of a pinch-type, prong-type, or choke-type collar or if the collar is unsafe or is not properly fitted;

(8)   If the tether may cause injury or entanglement;

(9)   If the animal is tethered in a place that is unsanitary, including any place where there is an accumulation of feces or other waste, or foul odor, or insect or rodent infestation;

(10)   If the tether is made of a material that is unsuitable for the animal’s size and weight or that causes any unnecessary discomfort to the animal;

(11)   If the tether has weights attached or that contains metal chain links more than one-quarter of an inch thick;

(12)   If the tether does not possess swivels on both ends to adequately prevent twisting and tangling, unless the owner or occupant is present with the dog at all times;

(13)   If no owner or occupant is present at the premises;

(14)   If the dog is unaltered, unless the owner or occupant is present with the dog at all times.

(b)   As used in this section, “tether” means a rope, chain, cord, dog run or pulley, or similar restraint for holding an animal in place, allowing a radius in which it can move about.

(c)   Whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor on the first offense, a misdemeanor of the fourth degree on the second offense, and a misdemeanor of the first degree on the third or any subsequent offense. Notwithstanding the foregoing penalties, if an animal becomes sick or injured as a result of a violation of this section, then whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree.