Westland, MI - The Westland City Council introduced an ordinance at their May 5 meeting to define and restrict the tethering of dogs. The ordinance is a result of discussion with residents, looking at other cities with similar ordinances, and as a part of the Compassionate City campaign that launched this year.

The new ordinance aims to protect dogs against mistreatment and abuse.

Under the ordinance, "tethering" means securing a dog to a stationary object with a metal chain or coated steel cable for keeping a dog restrained. Walking a dog on a leash and securing a dog for temporary grooming or other professional services do not fall under the proposed ordinance's restrictions.

"Tethering of dogs has been an issue within our City in the past.  It is important that the Compassionate City Initiative aims to aid and protect all living creatures,"  Stated Mayor Wild.

If the ordinance is passed, among other restrictions, it would be unlawful to: continuously tether a dog for more than three hours per day; tether a dog with anything that weighs more than 10% of the animal's body weight; tether a dog in an unshaded area in high temperatures and to not provide appropriate shelter in below-40 degree weather; and to tether a dog less than four months of age.

The Tethering Ordinance will go on the Council Agenda to be voted on at the Monday, May 19 meeting of the Westland City Council.  Residents can learn more about the new ordinance by contacting Fire Administration at (734)467-3237.

 For more information, please contact Administrative Secretary Aubrey Berman at (734)467-3200