New Mexico does not have a statewide law that outright bans chaining or tethering dogs outside. However, state law does require that all companion animals have their basic needs met, including food, water, shade, and shelter.
Long-term chaining is considered cruel and can lead to behavioral and health issues, and most counties and cities in New Mexico have local ordinances that restrict or prohibit the practice.
Local Ordinances: City and County Rules
Many municipalities in New Mexico have enacted strict anti-tethering laws, making it illegal or highly restricted to leave pets chained outside:
- Albuquerque: Chaining animals for longer than one hour in any 24-hour period is illegal. Violations can result in fines up to $500 and/or 90 days in jail.
- Bernalillo County: Has a zero-tolerance policy—chaining or tethering a dog outside is completely prohibited.
- Santa Fe: It is unlawful to confine a domestic animal by tether, chain, trolley, or similar restraint, except in limited circumstances such as picnics, emergencies, or when the owner is immediately present.
- Roswell: A revised ordinance prohibits tethering dogs (and cats) to stationary or non-stationary objects, with exceptions for brief periods during events, veterinary care, training, or when the owner is outside and within visual range of the animal. Pets must otherwise be kept in a secure, enclosed area with a fence or wall.
What Counts as Tethering?
Tethering refers to restraining an animal by tying it to a stationary object (like a tree, fence, or stake) with a rope, chain, or similar device. Most ordinances allow for:
- Temporary tethering during supervised outdoor activities (like walking on a leash)
- Brief periods for specific tasks (such as during grooming, veterinary care, or lawful events)
- Tethering only when the owner is present and supervising the animal
Penalties
Penalties for violating local tethering laws can include:
- Fines (up to $500 in Albuquerque)
- Possible jail time
- Potential bans on pet ownership for repeat or severe offenses
Summary Table: Major New Mexico Cities and Tethering Laws
| City/County | Tethering Allowed? | Key Details/Exceptions |
|---|---|---|
| Albuquerque | No (over 1 hour) | Max 1 hour per 24 hrs; fines and jail possible |
| Bernalillo County | No (zero tolerance) | Complete ban on chaining/tethering |
| Santa Fe | No (except limited cases) | Only for emergencies, events, or with owner present |
| Roswell | No (routine) | Only brief, supervised, or with vet’s approval |
It is illegal to routinely leave your pet chained outside in most parts of New Mexico. The state allows local governments to set strict anti-tethering rules, and many cities and counties have adopted comprehensive bans or severe restrictions.
Always check your local ordinances, as violating these rules can result in significant penalties. If you need to restrain your pet outdoors, use a secure, enclosed area or supervise them closely to comply with the law.
Sources:
- https://www.roswell-nm.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1296
- https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
- https://www.cabq.gov/pets/animal-protection-services/heart-ordinance-information
- https://www.nmdog.org/unchain-nm.html