Dear Members of The South Carolina Legislature:

Hundreds of thousands of people keep their dogs outside in South Carolina. Dogs are kept confined by tethers, chains, and kennels. Dogs have basic needs to be loved, cared for, and well socialized. Caring for them means providing adequate shelter, food, exercise, and closeness to humans. Confining dogs outdoors is cruel because it deprives them of having basic needs met.  It leads to poor socialization, behavioral issues such as aggression, muscle atrophy, and poor overall physical condition. It subjects them to inclement weather and can lead to death in temperatures that are too hot or too cold. It furthermore is cruel and should be considered neglect because it causes animals to be isolated, alone, and unable to attach or bond with others, robbing them of the chance to be with anyone. People should not be able to keep animals outdoors and this should be considered neglect. 

We respectfully request that legislation be implemented to prohibit individuals from keeping their dogs confined outside. 

Thank you for your consideration of this petition.

Sincerely,

Geeta Nangia, MD