In Hawaii, it is illegal to leave your pet chained or tethered outside under conditions that cause harm or endanger the animal’s health and safety. According to Hawaii Revised Statutes §711-1109, cruelty to animals includes tethering or restraining a dog to a stationary object like a doghouse, tree, or fence in a manner that endangers the dog or prevents it from obtaining necessary sustenance. The law also prohibits chaining a dog under six months old unless it is under direct supervision.
The tethering must comply with specific guidelines: the chain or tether should not weigh more than one-eighth of the dog’s body weight, and the dog cannot be tethered in a way that exposes it to undue risk or suffering. Use of dangerous collars, such as choke, pinch, or prong collars, for tethering is also prohibited unless the dog is engaged in supervised activity.
In 2025, Hawaii has increased penalties for animal cruelty offenses, highlighting the seriousness of mistreating pets, including improper tethering. Violations can result in criminal charges, emphasizing the state’s commitment to protecting animal welfare.
Furthermore, new laws prohibit leaving pets confined in vehicles under dangerous conditions, allowing authorities and even private citizens in some cases to remove animals to protect them from harm.
Chaining or leaving your pet outside in Hawaii is legal only if done responsibly and without endangering the animal. Unsafe tethering, leaving pets unsupervised when young or under harmful conditions, or using improper restraints can lead to criminal cruelty charges. Pet owners should ensure the safety, health, and well-being of their animals, adhering closely to these state regulations.
Sources
[1] https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
[2] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/hawaii/
[3] https://legiscan.com/HI/text/HB698/id/3205903/Hawaii-2025-HB698-Amended.html
[4] https://legiscan.com/HI/text/HB698/id/3066843/Hawaii-2025-HB698-Introduced.html
[5] https://www.hawaiianhumane.org/2025-advocacy-initiatives/
