Tethering/Chaining
University Heights, Ohio
618.021 TETHERING OF ANIMALS.
(a) The owner of any animal may restrain the animal outside on a tether for a reasonable period of time, not to exceed three hours in a 24-hour period, when the animal is unattended. The tether must not be less than five times the length of the animal and must keep the animal within the owner’s property. The animal must have access to shade, dry shelter, and tip-proof water supply.
(b) The owner of any animal may restrain the animal outside on a tether for a reasonable period of time, so long as the owner or other adult caretaker remains in attendance on the property and is able to respond immediately to any emergency or need of the animal. The tether must not be less than five times the length of the animal and must keep the animal within the owner’s property. The animal must have access to shade, dry shelter, tip-proof water supply, and food.
(c) Tethering of animals outside is prohibited:
(1) Between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.;
(2) If a heat advisory has been issued by a local or state authority or the National Weather Service;
(3) If a severe weather warning has been issued for the jurisdiction by the National Weather Service;
(4) If a tornado warning has been issued for the jurisdiction by the National Weather Service;
(5) If the tether is attached by means of a pinchtype, prongtype, or choketype collar or if the collar is unsafe or is not properly fitted;
(6) If the tether, by its design, materials, or location, poses a risk of harm or injury to the animal;
(7) If the tether, by its design, materials, or location, poses a risk of harm or injury to others.
(d) 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 or other person 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.
