This bill would would encourage responsible tethering, and protecting pups from horrible weather such as tornadoes, experiencing heat over 95 degrees, and being left food and water. It also would make owners think things through before chaining up their dog.

Chaining dogs outside would be prohibited in Nashville under a Metro Council proposal that also would ban tethering dogs outdoors during extreme cold and heat.

“This is not anti-tethering,” said Bennett, an animal advocate who has shepherded several pet-related bills during her two terms on the council. “This is responsible tethering.”

Multiple Nashville nonprofits seek to provide fencing for low-income residents who chain or tether their dogs. Among the groups are Music City Hounds Unbound and Habitat for Paws.

Tethering would be allowed only if the following is satisfied:

• A swivel is at both ends of the tether and the tether is free of tangles.

• The collar on the animal to which the swivel is attached is properly fitted and is a collar that is commonly recognized as a pet collar (choke and pinch collars would not be allowed).

• The tether is at least 15 feet in length, and pulley, running line or trolley systems also are at least 15 feet in length.

• The animal has access to water, shelter and dry ground at all times, and has access to adequate food.

• The animal is at least 6 months of age and has a current rabies vaccination.

• The animal is not sick, injured or in heat.

• If there are multiple animals, each animal must be tethered separately.

• The tethering device shall allow the tethered dog to lie down comfortably at all positions.

How do you feel about a bill such as this one that The Tennessean outlines on their site?

Would you support a similar bill like this in your city?

Keeping dogs safe is important, and supporting a bill like this is one of the first steps you can take. We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!