Oregon law is explicit and progressive when it comes to the welfare of pets, especially regarding chaining and tethering. If you’re a pet owner in Oregon, understanding these regulations is crucial to avoid legal trouble—and, more importantly, to ensure the humane treatment of your companion animal.
Oregon’s Tethering and Chaining Law: The Basics
Oregon law does not outright ban tethering or chaining a pet, but it strictly limits how, when, and for how long it can be done. The primary goal is to prevent neglect and protect pets from harm, abuse, and the behavioral issues associated with long-term isolation.
Legal Limits on Tethering
Time Restrictions:
You may not chain or tether a dog to a stationary object for more than 10 hours in a 24-hour period. If the animal is attached to a running line, pulley, or trolley system, the maximum permitted is 15 hours in any 24-hour period.
Type of Tether/Collar:
The law forbids the use of pinch, prong, or choke collars while tethering.
Minimum Care and Shelter:
Any pet left outside must have constant access to adequate shelter and bedding. The shelter must protect your pet from weather extremes and must not be a crawlspace, under a vehicle, cardboard box, crate, or wire cage. Waste must be removed regularly, and the shelter must be kept in good repair.
When Tethering Becomes Illegal
Tethering or chaining is illegal and considered a violation if:
The collar or tether can cause injury or strangle the animal.
The animal becomes entangled in a way that risks its health or safety.
Dogs are left chained in unsafe or unsanitary conditions, or without adequate food, water, and shelter.
These offenses are typically treated as Class B violations under Oregon law. If the tethering results in physical injury or death, penalties increase and may be classified as misdemeanors or even felonies, especially in the case of repeated neglect or abuse.
Exceptions to the Rule
Certain situations are exempt from chaining restrictions:
Enforcement and Penalties
Violating Oregon’s tethering law can result in:
Table: What’s Legal and Illegal for Pet Tethering in Oregon
| Situation | Legal? | What the Law Requires |
|---|---|---|
| Tethering >10 hrs/day (stationary) | No | Max 10 hours/24 hrs |
| Tethering >15 hrs/day (trolley/runner) | No | Max 15 hours/24 hrs |
| Choke/pinch/prong collar for tethering | No | Only safe, well-fitted collars allowed |
| Lack of proper shelter or care | No | Shelter, water, food, sanitation required |
| Direct supervision/tethering for activity | Yes (with limits) | Exceptions for transport, events, or working |
Leaving your pet chained outside in Oregon is only legal under strict limits. Tethering beyond allowed time, improper equipment, or lack of shelter and care can lead to significant penalties—even criminal charges. Always check for local ordinances, which may have even stricter rules. The intention behind these laws is simple: to ensure all pets are treated with compassion and dignity.
Sources
[1] https://www.fencesforfido.org/oregon-s-tethering-law
[2] https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
[3] https://www.oregonhumane.org/wp-content/uploads/guide_Oregon_statutes.pdf
[4] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/oregon/
[5] https://www.oregonhumane.org/wp-content/uploads/03-30-20_law_book2019.pdf
