A Good Idea if You Live in DC Too – Montgomery County Enforcing “No Unattended Outdoor Tethering of Dogs during Extreme Cold Weather”

Photo by PoPville flickr user Victoria Pickering

From Montgomery County Government:

“Due to the extremely cold temperatures predicted for tonight, January 18 and the next several days, the Director of the Montgomery County Animal Services Division Thomas Koenig is announcing enforcement of Executive Regulation 10-10AM, Anti-Cruelty Conditions for Dogs.

Section II-C of the regulation states that “a person must not tether a dog under circumstances that endanger its health, safety, or well-being including: unattended tethering of the dog during a weather emergency.” The enforcement of this regulation is put into effect during periods of high heat and humidity, and during conditions of extreme cold, wind, and heavy snow which can all be damaging to dogs and other animals. The penalty for this violation is a $500 fine.

Montgomery County Police Animal Services officers want to remind citizens to be particularly careful with all pets during this period of cold weather. The best advice during periods of extreme weather conditions is to bring pets indoors. Even animals that are accustomed to living outdoors can be susceptible to the dangers of cold weather. Livestock animals should have a place to get out of the wind and dry bedding should be provided to protect them from frostbite.
ASD Officers will be on-call, patrolling neighborhoods and responding to any animal-related emergencies. If you see an animal left outside that appears to be in danger, please call the Animal Services Division immediately at 301-279-8000.”