New Regulations Penalize Dog Owners for Prolonged Tethering

New regulations aimed at enhancing animal welfare will take effect on September 25, 2023, prohibiting dog owners from tethering their pets for extended periods. Under the new rules, individuals must not restrain dogs using ropes, lines, or chains attached to fixed points if it causes harm. This measure enables animal welfare inspectors to impose penalties when a dog is found to be suffering due to prolonged tethering.

The updated legislation specifically protects vulnerable dogs, including puppies and pregnant dogs, who are not allowed to be tethered at all, except in limited circumstances, such as when visitors or other animals temporarily occupy a property. Andrew Hoggard, the Associate Agriculture Minister, emphasized that extended tethering leads to significant distress for dogs, impacting their health and freedom of movement.

Hoggard noted that prolonged confinement can result in excessive barking, aggression, and other behaviors that may jeopardize the welfare of the dogs as well as the safety of families and the public. He stated, “This targets unacceptable treatment from a small minority of owners.” According to Hoggard, prolonged tethering and confinement are among the most reported issues investigated by the SPCA, accounting for approximately 10 percent of dog-related welfare complaints.

The penalties for violations of these new regulations are substantial. Offenders may face fines of $300 if the inspector determines that the offense could cause mild short-term harm to the animal. For offenses that may result in mild to moderate short-term harm, the fine increases to $500. In more severe cases, prosecution is also a possibility.

Certain exceptions apply to the regulations. Working dogs, such as those used on farms, may be tethered as long as they receive regular off-tether time and sufficient exercise. Hoggard reassured responsible dog owners who actively care for and walk their pets that the new rules will not affect them.

In response to the regulations, Dr. Alison Vaughan, the Scientific Officer at the SPCA, expressed her support, stating that the new rules convey a clear message: long-term chaining of dogs is unacceptable in society. “This is a long-fought and hard-won victory for dogs across Aotearoa,” Vaughan said. She highlighted that the regulations result from years of advocacy and are necessary to prevent the suffering of dogs that have been chained for extended periods, sometimes their entire lives.

Vaughan acknowledged that while these changes will not resolve every issue immediately, they represent a significant step forward. She affirmed the SPCA’s commitment to further advocating for regulations addressing prolonged confinement, such as caging.

As the implementation date approaches, the focus on the welfare of dogs is set to intensify, with hopes that the new regulations will enhance the lives of countless animals across the country.