As pet owners, it’s our responsibility to ensure the well-being of our animals. However, when it comes to leaving pets outside, especially chained, many people may not fully understand the legal implications. In Maine, there are laws in place to protect pets from neglect and mistreatment, but do they specifically address whether it’s illegal to leave a pet chained outside? In this article, we’ll examine what Maine law says about tethering or chaining pets and how it relates to animal welfare.
Maine’s Laws on Chaining Pets
Maine has laws that are designed to ensure pets are treated humanely, especially when it comes to how they are confined and cared for. These laws include restrictions on how long pets can be tethered and what kind of shelter they must have.
Maine’s Animal Welfare Laws (Title 7, Chapter 739)
Maine’s Animal Welfare Act provides specific protections for pets, especially when it comes to confinement, care, and treatment. Regarding tethering, the law outlines clear guidelines:
Minimum Tethering Duration: Maine law prohibits leaving a dog tethered for more than 6 hours within a 24-hour period. This law is in place to prevent dogs from being left chained outside for extended periods, which can lead to physical and emotional distress.
Adequate Shelter: If a dog is tethered outside, the owner is required to provide adequate shelter. This means the dog must have a doghouse or similar structure that provides protection from the elements, including extreme weather conditions like rain, snow, or excessive heat. The shelter must allow the dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Proper Food and Water: In addition to shelter, the law mandates that dogs must have access to clean food and water if they are being left outside. This is critical to ensure that the dog’s health and basic needs are being met while tethered.
Dangerous Conditions: Maine’s laws also stipulate that tethering a dog in a manner that creates a danger to its safety is not allowed. This includes leaving a dog outside in freezing temperatures, extreme heat, or with inadequate protection from the weather.
The Length of the Tether: The law requires that a dog’s tether be at least 10 feet long, allowing the dog to move around freely and comfortably. A short tether that restricts the dog’s movement or causes the dog to be entangled is considered inhumane and is prohibited.
Chaining Pets: Exceptions and Enforcement
While the law in Maine provides clear guidelines on chaining or tethering pets, there are certain situations that might lead to exceptions:
Training or Temporary Supervision: If the tethering is done for training purposes or to temporarily supervise a pet, it may not violate the law, provided it’s not for an extended period. However, this must still be done with proper shelter, food, and water.
Emergency Situations: In an emergency, a pet may need to be temporarily tethered for its safety or to prevent harm. However, this must not be for an extended period and should be a temporary solution.
Penalties for Violating Maine’s Tethering Laws
Failing to follow the state’s regulations on tethering and pet care can result in serious consequences. If you violate the law by leaving your pet chained outside for an extended period, failing to provide proper shelter, or exposing your pet to dangerous conditions, you could face penalties, including:
Fines: The law provides fines for those who violate animal welfare regulations. These fines can range from $100 to $1,000 or more, depending on the severity of the offense.
Animal Seizure: If a pet is found to be in distress or danger due to improper tethering or neglect, animal control officers have the authority to seize the animal from the owner’s property.
Criminal Charges: In extreme cases, a person could face criminal charges for animal cruelty or neglect. A conviction could result in imprisonment or probation, as well as restrictions on owning animals in the future.
How to Avoid Legal Issues with Tethering Pets
To ensure you are compliant with Maine’s laws and keep your pet safe, consider these guidelines:
Limit Tethering Time: Never leave your dog or pet tethered for more than 6 hours within a 24-hour period. If you’re going to be away for longer, make arrangements for the pet to be inside or in a secure, protected area.
Provide Adequate Shelter: Ensure that your pet has access to proper shelter that will keep them safe from harsh weather conditions. This includes a sturdy doghouse or other structures that shield them from rain, snow, or extreme heat.
Monitor Your Pet’s Well-being: If you must tether your pet, check on them regularly. Ensure they are comfortable, have fresh water, and are not showing signs of distress.
Use a Proper Tether: The tether must be at least 10 feet long, and it should be secure enough to prevent entanglement. Make sure the pet has enough space to move around and that the tether is not causing discomfort.
Be Aware of Local Ordinances: While the state law sets guidelines for tethering, some towns or cities in Maine may have additional regulations. It’s always a good idea to check with local authorities to ensure you are in compliance with all animal welfare laws.
In Maine, it is illegal to leave your pet chained outside for extended periods without providing proper shelter, food, and water. The law restricts tethering to no more than 6 hours in any 24-hour period, and there are requirements for ensuring that your pet is safe and protected from the elements. Violation of these laws can lead to fines, criminal charges, or even the seizure of your pet. As a responsible pet owner, it’s crucial to follow these regulations to ensure the well-being of your animal and avoid legal trouble.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
[2] https://www.maine.gov/ifw/fish-wildlife/captivity.html
[3] https://www.animallaw.info/content/map-state-dog-tethering-laws
[4] https://www.mainevetmed.org/2025-mvma-bills-of-interest
[5] https://mfoa.net/companion/mfoas-dogs-chained-life-20-year-campaign
