Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania

§ 79-5 Tethering of dogs; violations and penalties.

A. A person commits a summary offense if the person tethers an unattended dog, by use of a physical restraint, to any stationary or highly immobile object unless all of the following apply:

(1) The tethering is not for a longer period of time than is reasonably necessary for the dog or person to complete a temporary task that requires the dog to be physically restrained, such as putting the dog out to defecate/urinate, or play.

(2) The dog is periodically monitored at no less than thirty-minute intervals while tethered.

(3) The tether is attached to the dog by a nonchoke-type collar and is attached to the object by swivel anchors, latches or similar devices in a manner which prevents the tether from:

(a) Becoming entangled around any object so as to limit the dog’s freedom; or

(b) Entangling the dog or any of the dog’s appendages.

(4) The tether used to restrain the dog is of a type commonly used for the dog involved and is not thicker than 1/8 of an inch.

(5) The tether is at least three times the length of the dog, as measured from the tip of the dog’s nose to the base of the dog’s tail, but not less than 10 feet in length.

(6) The dog has easy access to potable drinking water, edible food and adequate shade and shelter within the tethered area, unless the dog is being directly supervised.

(7) The dog is not tethered outdoors:

(a) During any period in which a severe weather warning has been issued for the area by the National Weather Service; or

(b) For a continuous period of time greater than 30 minutes if the temperature is below 32º F. or above 90º F.

B. A person convicted for a second or subsequent time of violating Subsection A commits a misdemeanor of the third degree.

C. A person who commits an offense under this section shall, upon conviction, be sentenced to pay:

(1) A fine of not less than $200 nor more than $750;

(2) All veterinary costs;

(3) Shelter costs, which may not exceed $15 per day per dog; and

(4) Court costs.