Waterloo, Iowa

April 10, 2014

This ordinance limits the conditions under which a dog can legally be tethered. Tethering to fixed objects is not permitted. Minimum length requirements and maximum weight limits for tethers are defined, as is the need for access to potable water and food. Tethering is limited to no more than eight hours in a 24-hour period. Stricter limitations are defined for periods of extreme weather.

5-1B-8: TETHERING OF DOGS:

1. A dog may be restrained outdoors by tether, only on the property of the owner or caretaker of the dog, and only under the following conditions:
2. No tether may be attached to a fixed object unless the tether is so placed or attached that it cannot become entangled with another animal or object, and cannot extend over an object or edge that could result in strangulation of or injury to the animal, and shall be of sufficient length in proportion to the size of the animal, but no less than 10 feet in length, to allow the animal proper exercise and unlimited access to adequate feed, adequate water, and an outdoor facility that provides adequate protection from the elements. Such tethering shall be so located so as not to allow such animal to trespass on public property or upon private property belonging to others, nor in such manner as to cause harm or danger to persons, the tethered animal, or other animals.
3. The tether shall not weigh more than one-eighth of the animal’s body weight. Chains may not be used as tethers.
4. The tether must be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness worn by the animal. Choke or prong collars are prohibited. The tether must have a swivel at both ends.
5. No animal may be restrained by tether for more than 8 hours in a 24-hour period. When the temperature falls below 30 degrees Fahrenheit, with wind chill factor applied, or when the heat index is at least 85 degrees, no animal may be restrained outdoors by tethering for more than 15 minutes without access to adequate feed, adequate water, and an outdoor facility that provides adequate protection from the elements. In any circumstances, a tethered animal must have access to an outdoor facility that provides adequate protection from the elements.