Leaving a pet dog chained or tethered outside in Nevada is regulated by state and local law, with specific restrictions on the type and duration of restraint.
State Law (Nevada Revised Statutes § 574.100):
- Tethering Restrictions:Â It is illegal to restrain a dog using a tether, chain, tie, trolley, or pulley system (or similar device) that:
- Is less than 12 feet in length.
- Fails to allow the dog to move at least 12 feet (or, if a pulley system, a total of 12 feet).
- Allows the dog to reach a fence or other object that could cause injury or death by strangulation if the dog becomes entangled.
- Collar Restrictions:Â The use of prong, pinch, or choke collars or similar restraints is prohibited.
- Duration:Â A dog cannot be restrained for more than 14 hours during a 24-hour period statewide.
- Outdoor Enclosures: Any pen or outdoor enclosure used to keep a dog must be appropriate for the dog’s size and breed.
Local Law (Las Vegas and Some Other Municipalities):
- Stricter Duration Limit: In Las Vegas and some other cities, the law is more restrictive. It is illegal to tether a dog for more than 10 hours in a 24-hour period (compared to the state’s 14-hour limit).
- Heat Advisory Restrictions: If the National Weather Service issues a heat advisory, tethering a dog outside is prohibited for any amount of time. If temperatures reach 105°F, pet owners must use cooling mechanisms (like misting systems or portable air conditioners) if the dog is outside.
- Shelter and Water:Â Pets left outside must have adequate shelter from the elements and access to water.
Penalties:
- Animal Cruelty:Â Violations can be prosecuted as animal cruelty or neglect, with penalties ranging from misdemeanors (jail time up to six months, community service, and fines up to $1,000) to felonies for repeat offenses or severe cases.
- Additional Consequences:Â In Las Vegas, a conviction can result in being prohibited from owning pets for up to four years (or five years if the pet dies).
Summary Table
| Law Type | Maximum Tethering Time | Collar Restrictions | Heat Advisory Rules | Penalties |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nevada State | 14 hours (24-hr) | No prong/pinch/choke | Not specified | Misdemeanor to felony |
| Las Vegas | 10 hours (24-hr) | No prong/pinch/choke | No tethering allowed | Pet ownership ban, fines |
It is not outright illegal to leave your pet chained outside in Nevada, but it is heavily regulated. You cannot tether a dog for more than 14 hours (or 10 hours in Las Vegas) in a 24-hour period, must use proper restraints and enclosures, and must provide adequate shelter and water. Using certain types of collars or tethering devices is prohibited, and special rules apply during extreme heat. Violations can result in criminal charges and significant penalties.
Sources
[1] https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/ordinances/nevada/
[2] https://law.justia.com/codes/nevada/2010/title50/chapter574/nrs574-100.html
[3] https://www.shouselaw.com/nv/defense/laws/dog-laws/
[4] https://www.animallaw.info/topic/table-state-dog-tether-laws
[5] https://www.shouselaw.com/nv/defense/laws/animal-abuse/
