Worcester County’s new sheltering and tethering law in effect

WORCESTER COUNTY, Md. – Worcester County has unleashed a new bill. Bill 18-4 is a new sheltering and tethering law that protects our furry friends a bit more.

Chief Animal Control Officer Glen Grandstaff says they used to work with the state code, but now Bill 18-4 will give them more specifics to work with.

“With the county code I mean it really states that it’s going to have four strong walls, a floor, elevated floor free of debris, fecal matter, free of water,” Grandstaff tells us.

Grandstaff says the biggest problem on the Shore is tethering, so if you decide to keep your dog outside, metal chains are not allowed. With the new county code, it has to be coated plastic cable or a trolley system that can be in a fenced in or kennel of suitable size. Plus, instead of 10 feet, the new law requires for your cable to be at least 15 feet long.

Also, to make conditions less rough on your pet, fresh clean drinking water needs to be available.

Temperatures are also important for this bill. Wind breaks, dry clean bedding and fresh unfrozen water should be provided during temperatures bellow 32 degrees. For temperatures above 85, you should provide shade from direct sunlight and be kept away from hot pavement and any other hot surfaces.

This bill went into effect in December 15 and while many have been on board, others are concerned. Facebook posts flooding in with people wondering if these regulations will actually be enforced.

Grandstaff says that animal control is keeping their eyes open as they patrol during normal calls. But they hope the public can also be of assistance.

“We’ll give them a written warning, we’ll explain to them what it needs to be done. We’ll go back in a certain amount of time, 48-72 hours with a chain, for housing we’ll give them 48 house to do it.” Animal Control says that they can fine an owner $100 every time they are called.