County To Dog Owners: Keep Them Inside

Release: Montgomery County

Due to weather prediction of heat indices of 100 and more degrees likely Saturday through Monday, Thomas Koenig, the director of the Montgomery County Animal Services Division, is announcing enforcement of Executive Regulation 10-10AM, "Anti-Cruelty Conditions for Dogs."

The regulation states that “A person must not tether a dog under circumstances that endanger its health, safety, or well-being, including: unattended tethering of a dog during a weather emergency.” The penalty for violations is a $500 fine.

During the summer, this regulation will be enforced whenever, and for as long as, the National Weather Service issues an Excessive Heat Warning. At all times, owners are required to provide outdoor (non-tethered) dogs with proper shelter and protection from the elements.

Montgomery County Animal Services officers want to remind citizens to be particularly careful with all pets during this period of extreme heat and humidity. The best advice during periods of extreme weather is to bring pets indoors.

If you see an animal left outside that appears to be in danger, please notify Animal Services officers by calling the police non-emergency number at 301-279-8000.