In Louisiana, it is not outright illegal to chain or tether your dog or cat outside under all circumstances. However, the law imposes important restrictions to protect animal welfare:
- It is unlawful to tie, tether, or restrain any animal in a manner that is inhumane, cruel, or detrimental to its welfare. This includes situations where the restraint causes harm, suffering, or puts the animal’s health at risk. Violating this law can result in fines of up to $300.
Extreme Weather and Emergency Conditions
Louisiana law specifically prohibits chaining or tethering pets in dangerous weather or emergency conditions:
- During extreme weather: It is illegal to leave pets outside when the National Weather Service issues a freeze advisory. If your pet is left outside in such conditions, animal control can seize the animal, and you may be charged with felony animal cruelty.
- During declared emergencies: It is prohibited to tie or tether a dog or cat in a designated emergency area during floods, hurricanes, or other disasters when an official emergency has been declared by the governor or local authorities. Penalties include fines and possible imprisonment.
Animal Cruelty Laws
Louisiana’s animal cruelty statute defines cruelty as the intentional or criminally negligent mistreatment of any animal, including acts or omissions that cause unjustifiable physical pain, suffering, or death. Leaving a pet chained outside without adequate shelter, water, or protection from the elements can be prosecuted as animal cruelty.
Exceptions and Local Ordinances
- Some exceptions exist for dogs restrained on a running line or trolley system (with proper collars), or while engaged in certain agricultural or licensed activities.
- Local ordinances: Some parishes or cities may have stricter rules regarding tethering, so it’s important to check your local regulations.
Table
| Situation | Legal Status |
|---|---|
| Tethering in general (humane conditions) | Legal, but must not be cruel |
| Tethering in extreme weather/emergencies | Illegal |
| Tethering that causes harm or suffering | Illegal (animal cruelty) |
| Tethering with proper running line/trolley | Legal (with exceptions) |
Penalties
- Fines up to $300 for unlawful restraint.
- Felony charges for animal cruelty if the pet suffers or is left out in dangerous weather.
- Possible imprisonment for violations during declared emergencies.
While Louisiana does not ban all outdoor tethering, it is illegal to leave your pet chained outside in extreme weather, during emergencies, or in any way that is cruel or harmful. Always provide adequate shelter and check local laws for additional restrictions. Violations can lead to fines, animal seizure, and even felony charges.
Sources
[1] https://k945.com/what-does-louisiana-law-say-about-leaving-pets-outside-in-cold-temps/
[2] https://aldf.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Animal-Protection-Laws-of-Louisiana-2018.pdf
[3] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/louisiana/
[4] https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
[5] https://k945.com/pets-out-in-the-cold-whats-the-law-in-louisiana/