New Tethering Rules To Protect Dogs Take Effect in September

New regulations set to take effect on September 25, 2023, will prohibit dog owners in Aotearoa from tethering their pets for extended periods, a move aimed at enhancing animal welfare. Under these new rules, dogs cannot be tied using a rope, chain, or line attached to a fixed point if it causes them harm. Animal welfare inspectors will be empowered to issue fines when they determine that a dog is suffering due to prolonged tethering.

The updated legislation specifically addresses the needs of vulnerable dogs, such as puppies and pregnant animals, who cannot be tethered at all except in limited circumstances, such as when visitors or other animals temporarily occupy a property. Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard emphasized the significant distress that prolonged tethering can cause dogs, impacting both their physical health and behaviour.

In a statement, Hoggard noted, “This can lead to excessive barking, aggression, and other behaviours which could endanger their welfare, the safety of families that own dogs, the public, and other animals.” He further explained that the new rules aim to combat what he described as the “unacceptable treatment” of pets by a small minority of owners.

Hoggard highlighted that prolonged confinement and tethering is a frequent issue investigated by the SPCA, accounting for approximately 10 percent of dog-related welfare complaints received daily.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The penalties for violating these new regulations are tiered based on the potential harm to the animal. Offenders may face a fine of $300 if the animal welfare inspector judges that the offence could cause mild short-term harm. Should the inspector believe the offence poses mild to moderate short-term harm, the penalty increases to $500. In severe cases, prosecution is also a possibility.

There are exceptions for working dogs, such as those used on farms, provided they are regularly un-tethered and receive sufficient exercise. Hoggard reassured responsible dog owners that those who care for their pets and take them for walks will not be impacted by the new rules.

Support from Animal Welfare Advocates

The announcement has been met with enthusiasm from animal welfare advocates. Dr Alison Vaughan, the Scientific Officer at the SPCA, welcomed the regulations, stating they send a clear message that long-term chaining of dogs is unacceptable in society. She described the changes as a “long-fought and hard-won victory for dogs across Aotearoa.”

Dr Vaughan remarked, “Too many dogs have suffered, chained for months, years, or even their whole lives—this is simply the right thing to do. Dogs deserve to be part of the family, not chained up and forgotten.” While she acknowledged that the changes will not resolve every case immediately, she viewed them as a crucial step forward, empowering inspectors to take action in situations where they previously lacked authority.

As the implementation date approaches, advocates like Dr Vaughan remain committed to furthering regulations that address issues such as prolonged confinement and caging. The new tethering rules represent a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to improve the welfare of dogs and ensure they lead fulfilling lives as part of human families.