In Alabama, the legality of chaining or tethering pets, especially dogs, outside is regulated at the local level rather than by a strict statewide law. Some cities within Alabama, such as Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Mobile, and Gardendale, have passed ordinances that make it illegal or heavily restrict chaining or tethering dogs in ways that can cause harm or neglect.
For example, Birmingham’s city council passed a law prohibiting chaining dogs or tethering them improperly. The ordinance mandates that dogs must be tethered with a harness or collar that fits comfortably, using a running line rather than a chain, and the tether cannot be attached to a fixed point. Additionally, dogs cannot be tethered for more than eight consecutive hours. The law aims to protect dogs from isolation, physical harm, and psychological distress caused by prolonged confinement with limited mobility and social interaction.
Similarly, Tuscaloosa’s ordinance restricts tethering to no longer than 60 minutes for temporary tasks, requires non-choke collars and a tether length of at least ten feet, and mandates access to food, water, and shelter at all times during tethering…