If you are a dog pet owner living in Texas don't forget there is a new law that goes into effect on January 18, that bans chaining your dog up outdoors.

The new Texas law prohibits a dog owner from using a chain or tether to restrain their pet unattended. Owners must also provide adequate shelter from bad weather, direct sunlight, heat, standing water, or waste, and must also provide water at all times for the dog. If dogs are at risk of inhumane treatment the new law now allows that law enforcement officers will not have to wait 24 hours before they are able to intervene.

Jordan Davis, UnSplash
Jordan Davis, UnSplash
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The law specifically states that an owner cannot restrain a dog outside and unattended by use of a chain, weights attached, or if a chain is shorter in length than 10 feet or five times the length of the dog, as measured from the tip of the dog's nose to the base of the tail.

The new law does not affect a pet owner walking their dog on a leash or if a dog is staying at a camping facility or recreation area that issues their own rules and guidelines. If dogs are being trained for herding or shepherding in an agriculture business the law does not imply.

Josephine Amalie Paysen, UnSplash
Josephine Amalie Paysen, UnSplash
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If pet owners are found in violation they could face up to $500 and repeat offenders are subject to arrest with a fine of up to $2,000. For more on this new law go here.

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