Maryland

MD Code, Crim. Law § 10-623. Leaving dogs outside and unattended by use of restraints

(a)(1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.

(2) “Collar” means a device constructed of nylon, leather, or similar material specifically designed to be used around the neck of a dog.

(3) “Extreme weather conditions” means temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or conditions during an active winter or cold weather warning or advisory issued by the National Weather Service.

(4) “Restraint” means a chain, rope, tether, leash, cable, or other device that attaches a dog to a stationary object or trolley system.

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(6) “Suitable shade” means an area completely protected from the direct sun that is accessible and fully covers a dog.

(7) “Suitable shelter” means a structure that:

(i) is properly ventilated;

(ii) has a solid floor that allows the dog to remain reasonably dry;

(iii) has a weatherproof roof;

(iv) is enclosed with an entrance on one side;

(v) allows a dog to maintain its normal body temperature; and

(vi) is suitable for the species, age, condition, size, and type of dog.

(b) A person may not leave a dog outside and unattended by use of a restraint:

(1) that unreasonably limits the movement of the dog;

(2) that uses a collar that:

(i) is made primarily of metal; or

(ii) is not at least as large as the circumference of the dog’s neck plus 1 inch;

(3) that restricts the access of the dog to suitable and sufficient clean water or appropriate shelter;

(4) in unsafe or unsanitary conditions; or

(5) that causes injury to the dog.

(c) Except as provided in subsection (d) of this section, a person may not leave a dog outside and unattended for longer than 30 minutes without access to continuous:

(1) suitable shelter during extreme weather conditions; and

(2) suitable shelter or suitable shade when temperatures are above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

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(e)(1) A person who violates subsection (b) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 90 days or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.

(2) A violation of subsection (c) of this section is a civil offense punishable by:

(i) for a first violation, a warning;

(ii) for a second violation, a civil penalty of up to $500; and

(iii) for a third or subsequent violation, a civil penalty of up to $1,000.

(f) This section may not be construed to prohibit a local government from adopting a requirement for the health and safety of dogs that is more stringent than the requirements of this section.