Is It Illegal to Leave Your Pet Chained Outside in Oregon? Here's What the Law Says

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.

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