In 2025, Ohio is continuing efforts to protect animals, especially dogs, from cruel and unsafe conditions—particularly those who are chained or tethered for long hours. New and ongoing legislation, including updates to earlier bills like H.B. 94, aims to stop the harmful practice of long-term chaining of pets.
Why Long-Term Tethering is a Problem
Keeping a dog tied outside for long hours causes physical and emotional suffering. Dogs are social animals, and when they are kept on a chain all day, they suffer from:
- Loneliness and boredom
- Lack of exercise and movement
- Exposure to bad weather (extreme heat or cold)
- Risk of being attacked by wild animals
- Danger of being choked or injured by the chain
- Infestation from ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes
Such dogs may also become aggressive or anxious, leading to safety concerns for nearby people and animals.
What the Law Says in 2025
In line with the earlier Animal Protection Initiative (H.B. 94) introduced in 2015, Ohio continues to enforce and improve laws related to pet tethering. These rules focus on how long and when an animal can be legally chained outdoors.
Key Rules Under Ohio’s Animal Protection Laws:
- Dogs cannot be tied for more than 2 continuous hours
- After 2 hours, the animal must be released for at least 1 hour
- Dogs cannot be tethered for more than 6 hours in a 24-hour period
- Tethering is banned during extreme weather conditions (heat, cold, storms)
- Chaining is not allowed between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM
- The environment must be clean, safe, and free from health risks
Violating these rules can result in fines or even removal of the animal from the property.
Penalties for Not Following the Law
If someone breaks the tethering rules, they may face:
- A monetary fine
- Animal rescue agencies may take the dog away
- In serious cases, legal action and criminal charges may apply
Goals of Ohio’s Animal Protection Efforts
Ohio’s animal protection laws in 2025 aim to:
- Prevent cruelty and neglect
- Promote responsible pet ownership
- Reduce aggressive dog behaviour caused by isolation
- Encourage pet owners to treat animals as family members, not as tools or guards
These laws are not meant to punish pet owners, but to encourage better treatment and ensure pets live in safe and caring conditions.
In 2025, Ohio continues to strengthen its animal protection laws, especially against long-term pet tethering. The state recognises that pets, especially dogs, need freedom, movement, and human connection. By setting clear rules and limits on chaining, Ohio is promoting a more humane and safe environment for animals and communities.
For all pet lovers, it’s important to stay updated on the laws, understand the rules, and ensure pets are treated with the care and dignity they deserve.
FAQ: Ohio Animal Protection Laws 2025
Is it legal to chain a dog outside in Ohio?
Yes, but only for short periods. Dogs cannot be tethered for more than 2 hours at a time and not more than 6 hours total in 24 hours.
Can I chain my dog at night?
No. Tethering between 10 PM and 6 AM is not allowed, even if the dog is in your backyard.
What happens if I break the tethering law?
You may face a fine, and in serious cases, authorities can remove the dog from your property.
Can I tether my dog in bad weather?
No. Dogs cannot be chained during severe weather, such as extreme heat, cold, heavy rain, or snow.
Why is long-term tethering harmful?
It causes mental and physical stress, increases risk of injuries, and can lead to aggressive behaviour in dogs.
Does the law apply to other animals?
The law mainly focuses on dogs, but other animals may also be protected under general animal cruelty laws.