Leaving your pet-especially a dog-chained or tethered outside in Oregon is regulated by state law. It is not outright illegal to tether a dog, but there are strict limits and requirements you must follow:
Time Limits:
- You cannot tether a dog for more than 10 hours in a 24-hour period.
- If using a running line, pulley, or trolley system, the maximum is 15 hours in a 24-hour period.
Equipment Restrictions:
- You cannot use a collar that pinches or chokes the animal when pulled (such as choke or pinch collars).
- The tether must be a reasonable length for the dog’s size and allow for safe movement without risk of entanglement or injury.
Shelter Requirements:
- Adequate shelter and bedding must be provided. It is illegal to shelter a dog under vehicles, homes, porches, or in cardboard boxes, wire cages, or temporary carriers.
Exceptions
You are not violating the law if:
- The animal is tethered while in your physical presence.
- The tethering is required by a campground, recreational area, or for certain licensed activities (like hunting).
- The animal is being transported, or is a working dog for herding, livestock protection, or dogsledding.
Penalties
- Unlawful tethering is a Class B violation and can escalate to a misdemeanor if the tethering results in injury or death to the animal.
- Animal neglect charges may apply if tethering causes serious harm or death.
Summary Table: Oregon Dog Tethering Law
| Rule/Restriction | Legal Limit/Requirement |
|---|---|
| Max tethering time (stationary) | 10 hours per 24-hour period |
| Max tethering time (running line/trolley) | 15 hours per 24-hour period |
| Collar type | No choke or pinch collars |
| Tether length | Must be reasonable, prevent entanglement |
| Shelter | Must be adequate, not under vehicles, etc. |
| Penalty for violation | Class B violation/misdemeanor if harm |
It is illegal in Oregon to leave your pet chained outside in a way that violates time limits, uses improper equipment, or fails to provide adequate shelter. Violations can result in fines or criminal charges, especially if the animal is harmed.
Sources:
- https://www.fencesforfido.org/oregon-s-tethering-law
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/oregon/
- https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
- https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_167.343