Rep. Phillip Ensler (D-Montgomery) is drafting a bill that would require adequate shelter and access to food for outside dogs that are tethered.

Tethering is the act of tying an animal with a rope or chain to restrict movement. A statewide law presented by Ensler would require that any animal that is tethered have proper access to shelter, food, water and other necessities.

This would be state-wide, meaning it would also cover areas that are not covered by any local ordinances.

This act, named the "Alabama Dog Tethering and Outdoor Shelter Act," is hoping to prevent the abuse and neglect of dogs who are left outside.

According to Baldwin County Animal Shelter Manager George Majors, the most problematic issue that outdoor dogs face is weather conditions.

"In Alabama the wide variety of weather conditions is generally the most
problematic issue outdoor dogs face if they do not have the proper outdoor area to protect them from the elements as well as proper access to food and water," Majors said. "In addition, outdoor dogs can also be susceptible to attack from wildlife in certain situations. It is important to provide a safe and secure outdoor space for the dog to prevent any incidents from occurring and to be protected from the weather elements."

Exceptions from the act include trolley systems or cable runs. These systems are a safer route for the outdoor animals, as they allow them to move around instead of being stuck in one area.

Majors added that trolley and cable systems are less prone to tangling when properly installed and are generally preferred over traditional tethering methods.

The law mandates specific requirements for the care of outdoor dogs, ensuring adequate fencing or a dog pen of appropriate size, access to clean water and adequate shelter to keep the dog dry and protected from the weather, including provision of shade.

In certain scenarios, temporary tethering is allowed: Veterinarian clinics, dog grooming or dog boarding businesses, dog contests or shows, hunting dogs (during a hunt or training), at a campsite or recreational area, emergency situations where tethering is necessary (limited to three hours) and adequate outdoor shelter.

If this law is passed, violation of this law will be a Class B Misdemeanor, which in Alabama are mid-level crimes that could result in sentences of up to six months in jail with a fine of up to $3,000.

Currently, 23 states, including South Carolina and Tennessee, have statewide bans on dog tethering.