Wisconsin Humane Society and MADACC announce joint effort to reduce time dogs are tied outside

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – The Wisconsin Humane Society and Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission (MADACC) have announced a joint effort to reduce the length of time dogs are tied outside by their owners.

Having dogs outdoors on a tie-out for a few hours can be great, but according to animal welfare experts, dogs tied outside alone for the majority of the day are at risk of injury, depression, aggression and psychological issues.

“Dogs are highly social and intelligent animals that need to be with their people. Although not everyone can have a fence where they live, using a tether for long periods of time is not only depressing and frustrating for a dog, but dangerous to their health and well-being,” said Karen Sparapani, executive director at MADACC.

“We know that people love their dogs, and we want to be a resource for those struggling to bring their often young, untrained, exuberant dogs inside, so we are sharing great information to help people solve those issues,” said Angela Speed, vice president of communications at WHS.

Some of the problems with long-term tethering:

  • Dogs tied outside alone for long hours are at risk of insect bites, parasites, entanglement, and harassment or attacks by other dogs or people.
  • Long-term tethering is a high-risk factor for serious dog bites and increased behavioral challenges.
  • Extreme temperatures can lead to frostbite, hypothermia, heatstroke, and even death.
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