Bill > S2229

This bill amends existing Massachusetts General Laws, specifically section 174E of chapter 140, to establish new regulations for tethering dogs. It removes an existing subsection (a) and adds new provisions that specify the type of tethering equipment allowed, stating that only equipment designed for dogs should be used and that the tether's weight should not exceed 1/8 of the dog's body weight. The bill also prohibits tethering dogs under six months old outside at all. Furthermore, it revises rules regarding nighttime tethering, requiring the owner to be present and the dog to be in sight between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM, with a short exception for fifteen-minute periods. It also prohibits tethering dogs outdoors during adverse weather conditions, such as extreme heat, cold, or storms, unless for a brief fifteen-minute duration. An exception is added for tethering requirements in camping or recreational areas. Finally, the bill increases the fines for repeat offenses, with a second offense potentially costing up to $200 and third or subsequent offenses up to $500.