In New Mexico, pet owners must navigate laws that protect animals from neglect and cruel treatment, especially regarding chaining or tethering pets outdoors. This article outlines key legal points on the practice of leaving pets chained outside in the state as of 2025.
Understanding Tethering and Chaining Laws in New Mexico
Tethering or chaining a dog refers to tying the dog with a rope, chain, or similar restraint to a fixed object. New Mexico has enacted laws that limit how long a pet can be tethered to prevent animal cruelty.
According to the 2023 Senate Bill 429, no person shall tether or chain a dog for longer than three hours within a 24-hour period. This is intended to prevent prolonged confinement, which risks physical harm and psychological stress to animals.
There are exceptions for certain scenarios such as veterinary treatment, scientific research, livestock herding, legal dog sports, and approved public events where temporary tethering is necessary.
Violation of this law is a misdemeanor, and offenders can face legal penalties under the New Mexico Animal Cruelty statutes.
Local Ordinances on Pet Chaining
Cities and towns within New Mexico may have additional regulations:
In Santa Fe, fixed point tethering of animals is generally unlawful except for short-term situations like picnics or emergencies when the owner is immediately present.
Albuquerque law prohibits chaining or tethering dogs outdoors for more than one hour during any 24-hour period. Chains must be lightweight, appropriately fastened with specific harnesses, and allow free movement without entanglement risks.
In Corrales, the use of metal chains as tethers for dogs is strictly prohibited, and violations are treated as animal cruelty offenses.
Protection Against Cruelty and Neglect
New Mexico law broadly defines cruelty to animals as negligently mistreating, injuring, or failing to provide necessary care, which includes improper chaining practices that lead to harm or distress.
Leaving a pet continuously chained outside, especially without shelter, water, or social interaction, can be considered neglect or cruelty.
Animal control agencies may intervene if chaining endangers the pet’s health or safety.
Repeat offenses of cruelty can escalate from misdemeanors to felony charges, reflecting the seriousness of ongoing neglect.
Practical Considerations for Pet Owners
Limit outdoor tethering to no more than three hours in a day and use appropriate tethers designed for dogs.
Never leave pets chained outside unattended for extended periods or during extreme weather conditions.
Provide adequate shelter, water, and access to food even when pets are tethered temporarily.
Be aware of and comply with local city or county regulations, which often have stricter rules than state law.
If chaining or tethering is necessary, ensure the dog can sit, stand, walk, and lie down comfortably and avoid heavy chains that could injure the animal.
In New Mexico, leaving pets chained outside is regulated to protect animals from cruelty and neglect. Laws prohibit chaining a dog for more than three hours daily, with stricter limits in cities like Albuquerque and Santa Fe.
Pet owners must prioritize their animals’ welfare by following legal tethering durations, using humane restraints, and providing necessary care. Ignoring these rules can result in misdemeanor charges, fines, and even felony penalties for repeated offenses. Responsible pet ownership means understanding and abiding by these laws to ensure the safety and well-being of your companion animals.
Sources
[1] https://www.nmlegis.gov/Sessions/23%20Regular/bills/senate/SB0429PAS.HTML
[2] https://law.justia.com/codes/new-mexico/chapter-30/article-18/section-30-18-1/
[3] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/santa-fe-new-mexico/
[4] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/corrales-new-mexico/
[5] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/tethering-albuquerque-new-mexico/
