NY S06851

Creates new section 353-g in Agriculture and Markets Law prohibiting outdoor dog tethering except when specific conditions are met, including dog age of at least six months, tethering only between 5 a.m. and 11 p.m., and separate tethering of multiple dogs.

Establishes tether requirements including buckle-type collar or body harness at least one inch thick, minimum length of ten feet (or five times the dog's body length, whichever is greater), swivels at both ends, and weight less than one-tenth of the dog's weight.

Prohibits cruel or inhumane tethering conditions including exposure to waste, taunting, dangerous animals, entanglement, tethering longer than three hours at a time, use of choke collars or embedded devices, and tethering during weather advisories or adverse environmental conditions.

Establishes violations as class A misdemeanors, with potential animal forfeiture at court discretion for third or subsequent offenses.

Exempts law enforcement agencies, service dogs, working dogs, licensed veterinary practices, temporary events, hunting activities, camping facilities, and grooming facilities from the tethering requirements.