Arkansas does not have a statewide law that specifically bans or regulates chaining or tethering dogs outside. Instead, the state allows each city or county to set its own rules regarding pet tethering and chaining. This means the legality of leaving your pet chained outside depends on where you live in Arkansas.
Local Ordinances Vary
- Some cities ban or restrict chaining: For example, Fayetteville and North Little Rock have local ordinances that make it illegal to chain a dog as a primary means of confinement. In North Little Rock, it’s unlawful to tether a dog to any inanimate object as a means of confinement, with some exceptions for trolley systems and specific conditions. Fayetteville’s ordinance also bans chaining and encourages the use of pens or trolley systems instead.
- Other cities have no restrictions: In Benton, for example, there are currently no local restrictions on chaining dogs outside, as a proposed ordinance to ban the practice was voted down in 2019.
Animal Cruelty Laws Still Apply
Even in places without specific chaining or tethering rules, Arkansas’ general animal cruelty laws apply. If chaining a dog causes harm, denies access to food, water, or shelter, or exposes the animal to dangerous weather, it could be considered cruelty and lead to penalties.
Key Points for Pet Owners
- Check your local ordinances: Rules vary widely between cities and counties in Arkansas.
- Provide basic needs: Wherever you live, you must ensure your pet has access to food, water, and shelter. Failing to do so could result in animal cruelty charges.
- Special rules for other animals: Arkansas law specifically bans tethering primates outdoors.
Summary Table
| Location | Chaining/Tethering Rules |
|---|---|
| Statewide | No specific law; general cruelty laws apply |
| Fayetteville | Chaining banned; trolley system allowed |
| North Little Rock | Chaining banned except for certain trolley use |
| Benton | No restrictions (as of 2019) |
It is not illegal statewide to leave your pet chained outside in Arkansas, but many cities have their own restrictions. Always check your local laws and ensure your pet’s welfare to avoid violating animal cruelty statutes.
Sources:
- https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
- https://katv.com/news/local/dog-tethering-ordinance-fails-in-benton-city-council-expected-to-vote-on-revision
- https://levarlaw.com/blog/arkansas-dog-leash-dog-bite-laws/
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/north-little-rock-arkansas/