AL HB446

Dogs may only be tethered using a trolley system meeting specific requirements: tether must be designed for dogs, weigh no more than 1/8 of the dog's body weight, be at least 10 feet long, attached to a properly fitted collar or harness with swivels on both ends, and cable run secured 4-7 feet above ground level

Dogs kept confined must be in either a secure four-sided enclosure with adequate exercise space or a fully fenced yard (including electronic fencing) that prevents the dog from leaving

Outdoor dogs must have access to shelter with a roof, walls, solid floor, adequate ventilation, space to stand and turn around, protection from weather including shade and cold-weather bedding, and be free from waste and standing water

Exemptions include licensed veterinary practices, boarding kennels, animal shelters, dog shows/exhibitions, hunting and herding dogs, obedience training, temporary tethering at campsites or homes, grooming facilities, and emergency situations

Violations constitute a Class A misdemeanor, with violators responsible for full boarding and veterinary costs; county and municipal animal control officers may investigate violations and law enforcement may remove dogs believed to be in danger