We’ve all seen them, dogs tied up in a yard day after day, alone and looking miserable.
Dogs are tied up by their owners for various reasons. Some people want a “guard dog” and mistakenly believe that all any dog needs is a bone and a bowl of water.
Some might tether their dogs because their yard has no fence. Other owners become overwhelmed with the responsibility of dog ownership and resort to this seemingly easy solution.
Unfortunately, putting your dog on a rope or chain for extended periods of time could be more harmful than you might think. Being restrained is very stressful to a dog. Canines are animals who want to be with you, their family, not left alone and unable to move freely.
Tethering is now illegal in most states. In California, you may fasten a dog to a stationary object for no more than three hours during a 24-hour period and then “only when a person is completing a temporary task that requires the dog to be tethered.”
Violators face a fine up to $1,000 and up to six months in jail. At Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter, we discourage adopters seeking “yard dogs.” We would like to see your dog become a part of the family, and that includes living indoors and free from tethers.
Indoor-only or indoor-outdoor pets are happier and healthier than those made to live outside all the time. Not only do inside pets enjoy the emotional comfort of being with their humans, they live a longer and happier life. To report a dog that has been tied up, please call animal control at 510-337-8562.
Pet of the Week: Colt, a handsome, gray-and-white, 2-year-old, neutered male pit bull mix, is a sweet, gentle canine that loves to make you smile. He has an endearing sense of humor, loves his belly rubs and enjoys his treats.
Dog Alley: Seven canines are available for adoption. Visit Skippy, an adorable 3-year-old tan Chihuahua/dachshund mix (male/neutered) or Nelly, a very cute 3-year-old brown/black Chihuahua mix (female/spayed). Both make wonderful companions.
Cat Lair: There are 13 adult cats and 16 kittens available for adoption. Looking for their forever home is Mirabelle, a 7-year-old, diluted calico, domestic shorthair (female) or Zilla, a 7-year-old, black-and-white tuxedo, domestic longhair (male/neutered).
Rabbit Row: Three rabbits are available for adoption. Sheldon is a 1-year-old white rabbit, and Jeffery is about 5 years old, white with gray markings; both enjoy to be held and loved. Bun Bun is a beautiful red-eyed white rabbit, 1½ years old with a lot of spunk and love to give.
Carla Thornton is the development and communications coordinator for Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter. Visit the shelter at 1590 Fortmann Way at Grand Street, call 510-337-8565 or visit www.alamedaanimalshelter.org to view the animals.
