In 2022, the Wisconsin Census Bureau estimated there were approximately 2.5 million households in Wisconsin. Additionally, with pet ownership on the rise, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) estimates 44.6% of households across the United States own at least one dog, with the average of 1.46 dogs per household. From there, it can be determined that approximately 1.08 million households in Wisconsin have dogs, totaling around 1.58 million dogs in the state.

Being in Wisconsin, many of these wonderful companions face extreme weather conditions, from severe thunderstorms to blizzards. The highest temperature ever recorded in Wisconsin was 114'F and the coldest was -55'F.  They can also face neglect and starvation, as there's a lack of comprehensive animal protection legislation. With the way the current law is written, there is enough ambiguity that laws are rarely enforced. Texas addressed similar issues by enacting the "Safe Outdoor Dog" Act in 2022, which made significant strides in providing for the welfare of dogs left outdoors. 

This act specifies requirements for the adequate care of a dog, including the type of sheltered areas available to them outside, requirements for collars and tethers, and access to basic needs such as fresh water and safe food. This act also allows law enforcement and animal control officials to intervene sooner, rather than later, in emergency situations.

Since this law has been established in Texas, reports of neglected dogs have decreased significantly. Those neglecting their pets now face tangible consequences, which has led to statewide improvements on dog welfare.

Therefore, we petition Wisconsin's Legislature to adopt and implement the "Safe Outdoor Dog" Act. By doing so, we will not only be strengthening our commitment to animal welfare, but we will also be providing an avenue for authorities to intervene in the case of animal neglect or mistreatment. The safety and well-being of our canine population is not negotiable; it is a necessity. Sign this petition to help us advocate for the adaptation and implementation of the Texas "Safe Outdoor Dog" Act here in Wisconsin.

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Key Provisions of the Safe Outdoor Dogs Act:

1. Adequate Shelter:
   The law requires owners to provide adequate shelter to protect dogs from extreme temperatures, inclement weather, and standing water. This includes ensuring the dog can stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.  
2. Safe Restraints:
   The act prohibits the use of chain restraints, which can cause pain and injuries, and mandates that other restraints, such as cable tie-outs, are correctly attached to a collar or harness designed for restraint. 
3. Access to Water:
   The law requires dogs to have access to clean, drinkable water.  
4. Protection from Extreme Weather:
   Dogs must be protected from extreme weather conditions, including freezing temperatures, heavy rain, and snow. 

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More information can be found here: The Safe Outdoor Dog Act

Safely tethered dogs would reduce number of dog bites: Wisconsin Dog Bite Statistics​

Pet Ownership Statistics (2025)

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Make Your Voice Count!

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Email Wisconsin Senators & Assembly Members: WI State Legislature