Statewide Law: No Blanket Ban
Arkansas does not have a statewide law that specifically bans chaining or tethering dogs or other pets outside, but animal cruelty and neglect laws still apply. Instead, regulations regarding chaining or tethering pets are generally set at the local or municipal level.
Local Ordinances: City and County Rules
Many cities and counties in Arkansas have passed their own ordinances restricting or regulating the chaining or tethering of pets outdoors. Here are some examples:
North Little Rock
- Unlawful to Tether as Confinement: It is unlawful to tether a dog to any inanimate object as a means of confinement, except under specific circumstances (such as certain trolley systems).
- Trolley Systems: Allowed only if the cable is at least 10 feet long, elevated, and used between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Tethering is not allowed overnight or in a manner that endangers the dog’s health.
Jonesboro
- General Ban: It is unlawful to tether, chain, or tie a dog to a stationary object for confinement, with narrow exceptions for small adult dogs and short periods.
- Trolley Systems: Permitted under strict conditions, including minimum cable length, time limits, and requirements for spaying/neutering.
- Health and Safety: Tethering must not endanger the animal, and collars must be well-fitted and made of safe materials.
Other Areas
- No Statewide Leash/Tether Law: Outside of local ordinances, Arkansas leaves regulation of chaining and tethering to municipalities, which means rules can vary widely from one city or county to another.
- Animal Cruelty Laws: Regardless of local tethering laws, it is illegal anywhere in Arkansas to treat animals cruelly or neglect their basic needs for shelter, food, water, and protection from the elements.
Penalties
- Local Ordinance Violations: Fines and other penalties are determined by city or county law. Violations can result in warnings, fines, or even removal of the animal in severe cases.
- Animal Cruelty: If chaining or tethering results in harm, neglect, or cruelty to the animal, state animal cruelty laws may apply, leading to criminal charges and more severe penalties.
Table: Arkansas Pet Tethering Laws
| Area | Chaining/Tethering Allowed? | Key Restrictions/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Statewide | No specific law | Cruelty/neglect laws apply |
| North Little Rock | Generally prohibited | Exceptions for trolley systems, time, and safety |
| Jonesboro | Generally prohibited | Exceptions for small dogs, trolley systems, health |
| Other Cities/Counties | Varies by ordinance | Check local animal control or city website |
Key Takeaways for Pet Owners
- Check Local Laws: Always verify your city or county’s specific rules before tethering or chaining your pet outside.
- Basic Care Is Mandatory: Regardless of tethering laws, pets must always have access to shelter, food, water, and must not be left in dangerous or inhumane conditions.
- Tethering Is Increasingly Restricted: More Arkansas cities are adopting strict rules or outright bans on chaining pets outside, especially in ways that risk their health or safety.
- Penalties Can Be Severe: Violations can result in fines, removal of your pet, or even criminal charges if cruelty is involved.
Bottom line: While there is no statewide ban, many Arkansas cities prohibit or heavily restrict chaining pets outside. Always provide proper care and check your local ordinances to stay compliant with the law.
Sources
- https://levarlaw.com/blog/arkansas-dog-leash-dog-bite-laws/
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/north-little-rock-arkansas/
- https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/jonesboro-arkansas/
- https://www.steadily.com/blog/pet-laws-regulations-rental-properties-arkansas
- https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
