Now, I have some more good news! Johnson City has adopted a new law concerning tying dogs out for extended periods of time. I encourage Elizabethton citizens to read the law and decide to do the same or something similar to it, as we observe too many dogs suffering out in the cold this time of year. You can read more about the new laws in the Johnson City Press from October 17, 2019, by David Floyd, johnsoncitypress.com.

Here it is: Starting January 1, 2020, a dog or a puppy can be placed on a trolley or a pulley system in the owner’s yard no more than 12 consecutive hours, according to the ordinance. The dog cannot be tethered for the 12 hour period to a fixed post unless attended or under observation. The animals must have appropriate housing, food and water and be safe from attack by other animals.

Please read this and present any positive changes that you would like to see to further improve the lives of many animals in our area. For example, I would suggest that “housing” include the need for shade on very hot days as I have observed many dogs tied out without shade, suffering in the sun and its heat.

Starting January 1, 2021, the ordinance requires that no dog be left unattended while tethered or chained outside. Dogs and puppies can only be tethered to a fixed object only if it is under observation by its owner. Puppies under 6 months old cannot be placed on a trolley or pulley system. After Jan. 1, 2021, failure to comply with these changes will result in a fine. After three violations, the owner will have to surrender the animal to the animal shelter.

There may be things in the ordinance that we do not understand or that we feel the need to change further. For example, I do not understand the word “trolley” as it is used here, so some further research may be in order. Under the observation of its owner…any owner can say that they are observing their dog, but can we tell when they actually do? You get the idea so please give the new ordinance of Johnson City a look and decide what you think would be best for our county and its towns.

We can save dogs from suffering and even death from being tied out all the time if we can form new laws to protect them. We love our pets, and we want them to be healthy and happy and to live as long as they can, right? So, be responsible, let’s do this!

* All information about the new ordinance in Johnson City is from the article from the Johnson City Press, 10-17-19.

You are in my prayers,

E.J.