Kentucky does not have a statewide ban on chaining or tethering dogs outside, but recent laws and local ordinances set important restrictions and penalties.
State Law: No Blanket Ban, But Cruelty Is Prohibited
- Tethering or chaining a dog is legal in Kentucky at the state level. There is no statewide law that outright prohibits leaving a pet chained or tethered outside.
- However, improper or cruel tethering can be prosecuted as animal cruelty. For example, using a tether that is too heavy, causes pain, or puts the animal at risk may result in felony animal cruelty charges under Kentucky’s updated laws.
- The new law (Ethan’s Law, 2024) makes it easier to prosecute cases of cruelty, including chaining or tying up dogs in a way that endangers their health or safety. Those found guilty can now face felony charges and up to five years in prison.
Local Ordinances: Stricter Rules in Many Cities
Many Kentucky cities and counties have their own, much stricter, tethering laws:
- Frankfort: It is illegal to tie, chain, or tether a dog unless it is temporary and the owner is present and supervising. Chains cannot be heavy, must not cause harm, and cannot be attached directly to the neck or with a choke/pinch collar. Violations can lead to fines and impoundment of the dog.
- Louisville: Dogs cannot be chained outside for more than one hour in any eight-hour period, and only under specific conditions (e.g., proper collar, length, and weight of tether).
- Radcliff: It is prohibited to exclusively restrain a dog by a fixed-point chain or tether, and there are limits on time, temperature, and weather conditions for any tethering.
Key Points for Pet Owners
- Check Your Local Laws: Many cities and counties have specific rules that are stricter than state law.
- Provide Proper Care: Even where tethering is allowed, you must provide adequate shelter, food, water, and ensure the tether does not cause injury or distress.
- Animal Cruelty Felony: Any form of chaining or tethering that results in harm, neglect, or endangerment can lead to felony animal cruelty charges under Kentucky’s updated law.
Leaving your pet chained outside is not automatically illegal statewide in Kentucky, but improper or cruel tethering can be prosecuted as animal cruelty, and many cities have local ordinances that tightly restrict or ban the practice. Always check your local laws and ensure your pet’s safety and well-being.
Sources:
- https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/frankfort-kentucky/
- https://causecircle.org/stories/petition-update-ky-cracks-down-on-chaining-dogs-animal-torture-with-new-law/
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/radcliff-kentucky/