HB4033 Summary

• Amends the Humane Care for Animals Act to establish specific requirements for lawfully tethering dogs outdoors, including restrictions on lead weight (not exceeding one-eighth of the dog's body weight) and minimum length (at least 10 feet).

• Prohibits tethering dogs with tow chains or log chains exceeding one-fourth inch in width and requires use of properly fitting harnesses or collars rather than pinch, prong, or choke-type collars.

• Restricts nighttime tethering (between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.) to no more than 15 minutes unless the dog has access to adequate shelter and protection from weather.

• Exempts hand-held leash walking, agricultural operations involving shepherding or herding, and organized animal functions such as hunting, obedience training, and law enforcement activities.

• Establishes Class B misdemeanor penalties for violations of tethering requirements and Class 4 felony for second or subsequent violations, with each day of violation constituting a separate offense.