Hello supporters, The upcoming animal-related legislation in Virginia is the subject of A. Barton Hinkle's latest column in the Richmond Times Dispatch. Along with other very worthy bill propositions, our bill (HB646) was mentioned: "Democratic Del. John Bell is introducing a measure (HB 646) to restrict tethering — i.e., tying a dog up outside. Last year Bell introduced a broader measure that was killed in subcommittee on a voice vote, after some frankly ludicrous objections (e.g., what about sled dogs?). This year’s more narrowly tailored bill prohibits leaving animals tethered during freezing or dangerously hot weather, when the owner is off the property, and at night — and it makes exceptions for work animals. It also prohibits certain types of tethers, such as those that are too short, or heavy chains. As one animal-welfare advocate pointed out, this still lets owners leave animals penned up in small enclosures such as chain-link cages, exposed to bitter cold or punishing heat. But it’s a step forward — the modest sort of step most likely to pass a legislature that prefers incremental change to the radical kind." It's worth noting that, yes, our bill, as it's worded, would still allow people to leave their dogs in pens in harsh weather. However, 99% of people who leave their dogs outside also chain or tie them up. So our bill, combined with the existing law that calls for adequate shelter, should/would put a major dent in the problem if animal control enforces it properly. Please click the link to read the full article. Thank you for your continued support! Gary