MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama lawmakers are moving forward with legislation that would significantly limit the chaining or tethering of dogs outdoors, aiming to strengthen protections for animals kept outside. The Alabama Dog Tethering and Outdoor Shelter Act (HB149) is set to take effect October 1, 2025, if approved by the full Legislature and signed into law.
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Phillip Ensler, D-Montgomery, establishes new requirements for how dogs can be confined or tethered. Under the proposed law, dogs may not be left chained or tethered to stationary objects such as trees or posts unless specific conditions are met. Acceptable methods include secure enclosures with adequate space and height, fully fenced or electronically fenced yards, or trolley systems that meet strict safety standards.
The legislation mandates that tethers must be designed for dogs, not weigh more than one-eighth of the animal’s body weight, and be attached to a properly fitting collar or harness. Only one dog may be tethered per cable run, and the system must prevent the animal from leaving the owner’s property. Owners must also provide adequate shelter, food, and clean water for dogs kept outdoors.
HB149 includes exemptions for hunting, herding, dog sports, grooming at licensed facilities, and temporary tethering during emergencies or at businesses for a reasonable time. Violations would be classified as a Class B misdemeanor, carrying potential criminal penalties.
Animal welfare advocates have praised the bill as a step forward for humane treatment, while some groups, including the American Kennel Club, have requested additional exemptions for temporary tethering during grooming or animal husbandry at home.
The bill was placed on the House calendar for further consideration after advancing from the Agriculture and Forestry Committee earlier this month. If passed, Alabama would join a growing number of states enacting stricter rules on dog tethering and outdoor care.