Maryland Delegate Karen Young (D-Frederick) has introduced legislation, House Bill 501, which would prohibit a dog from being tethered for longer than 30 minutes when the temperature is below 30 degrees or above 90 degrees. Currently HB 501 is in the House Environment and Transportation Committee where it is expected to have a hearing on Feb. 27 at 1 p.m. in room 250 of the House Office Building.
It is already illegal for anyone to tether a dog in conditions that harm an animal. HB 501 goes too far and would directly impact sportsmen who are acclimating their dog to hot or cold weather as part of their training or in the field working. For instance, tethers are often used at field trials while dogs are waiting to compete. Anyone violating the law could face imprisonment up to 90 days in jail or a fine up to $1,000, or both.
“Tethers are commonly used by sportsmen and field trial handlers to train, compete and acclimate dogs to conditions they will face in the field,” said Luke Houghton, associate director of state services with the Sportsmen’s Alliance. “This practice, which protects the health of hunting dogs, would be criminalized under this legislation.”
Take Action Today! Maryland sportsmen should contact their state delegate and ask them to vote NO on HB 501. Members can contact their state delegate by using the Sportsmen’s Alliance Legislative Action Center.
About the Sportsmen’s Alliance: The Sportsmen’s Alliance protects and defends America’s wildlife conservation programs and the pursuits – hunting, fishing and trapping – that generate the money to pay for them. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation is responsible for public education, legal defense and research. Its mission is accomplished through several distinct programs coordinated to provide the most complete defense capability possible. Stay connected to Sportsmen’s Alliance: Online, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
