Is leaving a dog outside animal cruelty?

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals received about 600 emergency calls about dogs suffering from the heat in 2018 during the summer heat wave. Due to this large number, the RSPCA issued a warning to pet owners about leaving dogs in cars: if the owners were found guilty of doing so, they could face an unlimited fine or, worse yet, jail time. However, it seemed that pet owners were more responsible and aware of weather conditions and their pets after this strict warning worked. After observing how effective the warning was, Pennsylvania decided to adopt a similar policy.

It is now against the law in Pennsylvania for owners to tie up their dogs outside for longer than 30 minutes when the temperature is either below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or above 90 degrees. Libre, a dog who was rescued from his appalling living conditions in Southern Lancaster County, served as the law’s original model. When Libre was just seven weeks old, his owners had already subjected him to a great deal of trauma, neglect, and abuse. He was found by a stranger in a tragic state, and they immediately called a nearby animal rescue, which was able to save him just in time and spare him from a life of suffering. Libre has recovered fully since being saved, and he has played a significant role in influencing state legislation to help safeguard other animals throughout Pennsylvania.

The legislation, aptly called Libre’s Law, aims to stop animal cruelty that subjects animals to severe weather. Anyone found to have broken the law will be subject to harsh punishment, including a hefty fine and jail time, which could range from six months to a year.

The Lancaster County Animal Coalition’s cruelty officer, Jennifer Nields, stated, “This won’t stop cruelty, but it will emphasize the significance of justice for their suffering.” The laws acknowledge their suffering and give them what they are due. ”.

Libre’s Law, according to the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association, is an “incredible victory for animals.” ”.

While a few other states have passed legislation to address and forbid dog owners from chaining their pets for extended periods of time, Pennsylvania is the first to do so when it comes to the risks posed by severe weather. For instance, Washington DC has outlawed “cruelly chaining” pets, which includes tethering that prevents the animal from fleeing harm. However, Pennsylvania’s law is much more specific.

If you own a pet, you should already be aware of the risks associated with severe weather and how it may affect your animal. But just in case you need the reminder, during the fall and winter months, always check your pet’s paws for damage, buy a warm pet sweater or coat, and take them in for routine checkups.

Think About Basic Human Needs. Dogs Need Them Too!

Humans have three basic needs: food, water, and shelter. Keeping a dog outside, depending on how long they are kept outside, could potentially deprive them of all these basic needs, which are actually quite similar to those of your dog. Even though you might believe that a dog should naturally live outside, keep in mind that an outdoor shelter most likely won’t come close to matching the safety of keeping your dog inside.

Consider Exposure to the Elements

Most areas of the country experience extreme weather. Whether extreme heat or extreme cold, these elements pose a significant health risk to your dog. Dogs do not regulate temperature the same way that humans do. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are common problems that dogs might experience from prolonged exposure to heat, with heat stroke being potentially deadly. Increased risk factors include: outdoor temperatures over 80°F, exposure to direct sunlight, dogs with long coats, and brachycephalic breeds (smush-face dogs). On the flip side, exposure to prolonged cold temperatures can result in hypothermia (low body temperature), frostbite, or even death.

While some dogs, like Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes, are bred to withstand colder climates, dogs with thinner hair coats may experience discomfort when temperatures fall below 45°F. You run the risk of exposing your dog to thunderstorms, snowstorms, or even tornadoes in addition to exposing them to extremely high temperatures. In addition to being inadequate for these kinds of extreme weather, an outdoor dog shelter leaves your dog vulnerable to loneliness and fear.

If you’re keeping a dog outside

Meeting a dog’s complex physical, social, and behavioral needs can be difficult, if not impossible, for dogs who live outside.

We comprehend that dog owners frequently think about letting their dogs out because of behavioral issues that might appear to prevent them from staying inside. For instance, a dog might be destructive or challenging to housebreak. You should consult your veterinarian in these circumstances to rule out any potential health issues. They may refer your dog to a behavioural expert.

To solve any problems you might be having with your dog, we advise you to first take a look at these options. However, if you do decide to keep a dog outside, always exercise caution and be aware of potential hazards that could harm your dog.

Here are some things you need to consider:

A suitable outdoor dog kennel – this should be large enough to allow separate sleeping and activity areas. Its very important that your dog can comfortably walk, run and wag their tail within the walls of their kennel, and can play, stand on their hind legs, stretch and lie down without touching another animal or kennel.

Shelter and protection from rain, wind and sunlight – dogs should always be able to move where they feel more comfortable, away from direct sunlight and into the shade. Dog crates are never a suitable permanent environment for your pet.

Temperature and ventilation – heating and/or automatic cooling and ventilation may also be necessary to keep temperatures above 10°C and below 26°C. Heating or cooling systems need to be safe – no trailing cables, for example. We also advise monitoring the temperature daily.

Tethering or restraining dogs – we believe that dogs should not be tethered or chained, except for very short periods, as restraining a dog in this way can lead to injuries and also restrict normal behaviour, which can be very damaging to the dogs wellbeing.

Health and wellbeing needs – provide constant access to clean drinking water and a well-balanced diet. Use a sturdy water bowl and check regularly for refills. We also advise that you check your dog daily for any signs of injury or illness.

Social needs – always make sure your dog is able to behave normally and is provided with the opportunity for daily exercise, play and interaction with animals and people. Making sure your dog has appropriate company is an important consideration for outdoor dogs.

Never leave your dog alone for a long enough period of time to cause them to become depressed or lonely. Excessive barking, howling, or whining, as well as panting, hiding, and/or aggressive behavior, are all indications that a dog is in distress.

FAQ

Is it cruel to have an outside dog?

While keeping a pet outside in good weather is not cruel, dogs are pack animals that benefit from companionship and proximity to their owners. Therefore, it makes sense that they will be happiest when they are with their family. A dog that is only allowed outside is socially isolated and may howl or bark out of loneliness.

Can I leave my dog outside in the backyard?

This is undoubtedly one of the most frequently asked questions I receive as a professional dog trainer during consultations. Many pet owners believe their dogs would rather play outside by themselves, but that isn’t always the case. The short answer is no; never leave your dog unattended outside.

Is it animal abuse to leave your dog home alone?

There may not be a law that says how long you can leave your dog alone, but there are laws against animal abuse and neglect, and leaving your dog alone for too long may put you in violation of those laws.

How long can a dog be left alone outside?

While small puppies can spend a few hours outside in temperatures between 60oF and 90oF, Dr. Wooten.