Washington Dog Tethering Laws: What’s Allowed and What’s Not

In Washington State, specific regulations govern the tethering of dogs to ensure their safety and well-being. Below is an overview of these regulations and the associated penalties:

1. General Tethering Regulations

• Duration and Conditions: Dogs may be tethered outside only for periods that are not reckless and must comply with specific conditions:
  
  • Entanglement Prevention: Tethering must not result, or could reasonably result, in the dog becoming frequently entangled on the restraint or another object.
    
  • Individual Tethers: If multiple dogs are tethered, each must be on a separate tether and not secured to the same fixed point.
    
  • Freedom of Movement: The tether must allow the dog to sit, lie down, and stand comfortably without the restraint becoming taut, providing a reasonable range of movement.
    
  • Health Restrictions: Tethering is prohibited for dogs that are ill, suffering from a debilitating disease, injured, in distress, in advanced stages of pregnancy, or under six months of age.
    
  • Access to Necessities: Tethered dogs must have access to clean water and necessary shelter that is safe and protective. The shelter and water vessel must be constructed or attached in such a way that the dog cannot knock them over.
    
  • Collar Specifications: Dogs shall not be tethered by means of a choke, pinch, slip, halter, or prong-type collar. Only properly fitted buckle-type collars or harnesses that allow normal breathing and swallowing are permitted.
    
  • Tether Weight: The weight of the tether must not unreasonably inhibit the free movement of the dog within the area allowed by its length.
    
  • Safety and Sanitation: Tethering must not result in the dog being left in unsafe or unsanitary conditions or force the dog to stand, sit, or lie down in its own excrement or urine.
    

2. Exceptions to Tethering Restrictions

Certain situations exempt dogs from the general tethering restrictions:

• Receiving medical care or treatment under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian or being groomed.
  
• Participating temporarily in an exhibition, show, contest, or other event where the dog’s skill, breeding, or stamina is judged or examined.
  
• Being kept temporarily at a camping or recreation area.
  
• Being cared for temporarily after being picked up as a stray or as part of a rescue operation.
  
• Being transported in a motor vehicle or temporarily restrained or tied after being unloaded from a vehicle.
  
• Being trained or used by a federal, state, or local law enforcement agency or military or national guard unit.
  
• In the physical presence of the person who owns, keeps, or controls the dog.
  

3. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Violations of the tethering regulations can result in warnings or civil infractions. Animal care and control officers are authorized to issue these penalties to ensure compliance and protect the welfare of tethered dogs. 

4. Legislative Background

Prior to the enactment of these regulations, Washington State lacked specific animal cruelty standards or penalties for inhumane tethering. The introduction of these laws allows animal control officers to take corrective actions when dogs are tethered in unsafe conditions. 

Conclusion

Washington State’s dog tethering laws are designed to promote the humane treatment of animals by setting clear guidelines and restrictions. Dog owners should familiarize themselves with these regulations to ensure compliance and safeguard their pets’ well-being.