As October, which happens to be Pet Wellness Month, comes to an end, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has signed into law the new Senate Bill 5 (SB5). And for those unfamiliar with Senate Bill 5, it is also known as the Safe Outdoor Dogs Bill.
Considering the extreme temperatures that can be found in the state of Texas, it makes sense that animal lovers might be concerned about dog safety when they are left outside for long periods of time. And while there any number of reasons why a dog might be put outside, with this new Bill, there are now some official guidelines on how to make sure that our pups are being cared for, even if they are outside for long periods of time.
So what exactly is the Safe Outdoor Dogs Bill?
Texas Governor Abbott signs the Safe Outdoor Dogs Bill
According to the Committee Report we were sent by Animal Wellness Action, this Bill would prohibit a dog owner from the following activities:
"leaving a dog outside and unattended by use of a restraint unless the owner provides the dog access to:o adequate shelter;o an area that allows the dog to avoid standing water and exposure to excessive animal waste;o shade from direct sunlight; ando potable water; or·restraining a dog outside and unattended by use of a restraint that:o is a chain;o has weights attached;o is shorter in length than the greater of 10 feet or five times the length of the dog, as measured from the tip of the dog’s nose to the base of the dog’s tail; oro is attached to a collar or harness not properly fitted."
And while there are some exceptions allowed for in this Bill, including when camping or at recreational areas, when temporary restraint is being used (such as a quick run into a pharmacy), or when involved in specific business activities (including shepherding and herding).
This Bill is certainly one that we can appreciate as dog lovers and people who want what is best for dogs in general. And we are not alone in being happy with this news.
According to the Executive Director of Animal Wellness Action, Marty Irby, “We applaud Governor Abbott and the Texas State Legislature for working to achieve meaningful reforms for animals in Texas. Man’s best friend should never be chained or tethered outdoors, especially in instances of extreme weather and our modern day society will no longer tolerate these type of horrific abuses – this isn’t 1921 it’s 2021.”
All things considered, we would hope that more states would sign things like the Safe Outdoor Dogs Bill into law, especially if those states do not already have protections in place for our four legged friends. Texas is doing their part to think of our furry friends and we love to see it.
And yes, we are hopeful that more states will follow in Texas’ footsteps and make it clear that our dogs deserve and need to be protected when left outside for long periods of time, especially when they are being tethered.
Did you know about SB5 or the Safe Dogs Outdoor Bill? Are you a fan of this Texas Bill? Do you think all states should have something like this in place? We would love to hear your thoughts on this law.