Three-hour limit on tethered dogs

[Crossfire Bulldogs]

California dog owners will be barred from tethering their animals for long periods under legislation signed Wednesday by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Senate Bill 1578, effective Jan. 1, bars the tethering of a dog to a tree, fence, doghouse or other stationary object for more than three hours.

Violators can be charged with an infraction or misdemeanor, with a maximum fine of $1,000 per dog and up to six months in jail.

"This bill helps protect dogs from cruelty, and enhances public safety by preventing aggressive animal behavior that can result from inhumane tethering," Schwarzenegger said in a prepared statement.

Opponents disputed claims that tethering creates dangerously aggressive dogs. They argued that fencing is not always available, so tethering may be the best and safest option.

SB 1578, by Sen. Alan Lowenthal, D-Long Beach, provides exceptions for dogs tethered to comply with camping requirements or engaged in shepherding, herding or various other activities.

-- Jim Sanders, Bee Capitol Bureau