Nashville, Tennessee

8.12.030 – Cruelty to animals prohibited.

D. Pet tethering. For purposes of this subsection, “tether” means a cable, cord, or similar device used to attach an animal to a stationary device, but does not include chains. No person shall allow any animal to remain confined in such a manner as to unreasonably restrict the animal’s ability to move. No person shall allow any dog to remain tethered unless all of the following conditions are satisfied:

1. The tether is not unreasonably heavy in proportion to the weight of the animal.

2. A swivel is located at both ends of the tether and the tether is free of tangles.

3. The collar or harness on the animal to which the swivel is attached is properly fitted and is a collar or harness that is commonly recognized as a pet collar or harness (choke and pinch collars are not permitted).

4. The tether is not less than fifteen feet in length.

5. Chains shall be prohibited for use as a tethering device.

6. The animal is not outside during a period of extreme weather, including without limitation a heat index of ninety-five degrees Fahrenheit (95° F) or above as determined by the National Weather Service, freezing temperatures, thunderstorms, or tornados.

7. The animal has access to water, shelter, and dry ground at all times, and has access to adequate food.

8. The animal is at least six months of age and has a current rabies vaccination.

9. The animal is not sick, injured, or in heat (estrus).

10. Pulley, running line, or trolley systems are at least fifteen feet in length and are not less than six feet above the ground.

11. If there are multiple animals, each animal must be tethered separately.

12. The tethering device shall allow the tethered dog to lie down comfortably at all positions of tether.