You tie up or tether a dog in Washington State and you could soon be facing a hefty penalty. Currently, Washington doesn’t have animal cruelty penalties for tethering or tying up dogs. That is about to change. The new statute allows animal care and control officers to issue warnings or civil infractions for inhumane animal tethering. What is deemed ‘inhumane’? Well … the law makes it illegal for a person to leave a dog tethered for a reckless period of time without providing adequate access to food, water and/or shelter. The dog’s space must also be sanitary and sufficiently clean. The bill outlines restrictions intended to reduce dog injuries and permits for dogs to have space to comfortably sit, stand or lie down. Ultimately, it is hoped that this legislation eliminates future animal abuse and outright neglect. Washington (as are many other states) are signifying that owning a dog is a responsibility, one that dog owners better take very seriously or face the prospect of being sanctioned.
If you or a loved one is cited or charged with a law violation, you should immediately seek the advice and/or assistance of a qualified Seattle criminal defense attorney. The Seattle Criminal Defense Attorneys that make up the criminal defense team of SQ Attorneys are highly qualified and reputable Seattle criminal defense lawyers that are dedicated to providing top notch, aggressive representation for those arrested or charged for crime all across Western Washington and the Greater Puget Sound region. The team creates success by working with law enforcement and the prosecuting attorney’s office to ensure that all facts and circumstances related to the allegations are considered in creating the fairest, most equitable and just resolution possible in light of all the surrounding circumstances of the given case. So, whether you are cited with an infraction or arrested and/or charged with misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor or a felony, protect yourself … call SQ Attorneys at (206) 441-0900.
