Leaving your pet chained or tethered outside in Pennsylvania is not illegal per se, but strict state laws regulate how, when, and under what conditions you can do so. Under Pennsylvania law, an unattended dog cannot be tethered outside for more than nine hours in a 24-hour period. Additionally, a dog cannot be tethered unattended outside for longer than 30 minutes if the temperature is above 90°F or below 32°F.
The law also specifies that the tether must be appropriate for the size and breed of the dog, at least three times the length of the dog (measured from nose to tail base) or 10 feet, whichever is longer. The tether must be secured to a well-fitted collar or harness with a swivel anchor, latch, or similar device to prevent the dog from becoming tangled. The dog must have access to shade and potable water at all times. The presence of excessive waste, open sores, or the use of a tow or log chain, choke, pinch, prong, or chain collar can be considered neglect under the law.
Violations of these requirements are considered neglect and can result in summary offenses, punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a $300 fine. If neglect causes serious bodily injury or places the animal at imminent risk, the offense may be elevated to a third-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in prison and/or a $2,000 fine.
Dogs can be kept outside 24 hours a day if they are not tethered and are within a fenced pen or yard, provided they have shelter, a clean living environment, and nourishment. In winter, dogs should have an airtight dog house off the ground with a flap on the door and appropriate bedding.
Some Pennsylvania cities, such as Harrisburg and Pittsburgh, have additional local ordinances that further restrict tethering and leaving dogs outside, especially during severe weather. In these municipalities, leaving a dog outside unattended during extreme weather warnings may be prohibited regardless of whether the dog is tethered or in a fenced area.
While it is not outright illegal to leave your pet chained outside in Pennsylvania under state law, strict regulations govern the practice. Violating these rules can result in criminal charges and significant penalties. Always check local ordinances for additional restrictions in your area.
Sources
[1] https://bucks.crimewatchpa.com/springfieldtwppd/34825/content/pennsylvanias-dog-laws
[2] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/pennsylvania/
[3] https://www.twp.ferguson.pa.us/police-department/news/pa-law-makes-it-illegal-leave-dogs-outside-freezing-weather
[4] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/harrisburg-pennsylvania/
[5] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/pennsylvania/pittsburgh-pennsylvania/
