A growing number of Michigan residents support the introduction of new legislation regarding tethered dogs. The current law is antiquated, not befitting for a state with such high standards of animal welfare. Dogs are allowed to live their lives 24/7 on a chain. This comes from a state that has felony animal cruelty laws.

Jill Fritz, Michigan State Director for the Humane Society of the United States, reminds us that "standards for pet care are constantly changing and improving. There are many old-fashioned ideas about pet care that simply aren't acceptable by today's standards." Yet it is estimated that over 200,000 dogs in the United States are tethered.

Dogs are social animals; unfortunately, many tethered dogs are under-socialized. Combining this with the instinct to defend their territory, no matter how small it is, leads to a dangerous situation. By nature, dogs prefer to flee instead of bite. Restrict their movement by a chain and they may feel there is no other option than to bite in self-defense. Dogs did not ask to be put into a chained situation but are held responsible for their owner's judgement.

A grassroots movement of citizens is fighting for new and improved tethering laws. Please join them in getting this important piece of legislation introduced.

Photo Credit: Live Zakynthos