LITITZ BOROUGH - As we continue to experience cold temperatures, the LBPD wans to remind pet owners to bring pets inside as the temperatures drop.  Pennsylvania enacted new animal cruelty protections in June 2017 (Act 10), which include protection and penalties for cold weather. With respect to the weather, Act 10 states that a dog cannot be tethered for longer than 30 minutes in temperatures above 90 or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

Key components of Act 10 include the following improved tethering conditions for outside dogs:

• No more than 9 hours tethered in 24-hour period.
• Tether must be the longer of 3 times the length of the dog or 10 feet.
• No more than 30 minutes in 90+ or <30-degree weather.
• Must have water and shade.
• Must be secured by an appropriate collar - no tow or log chain, nor choke, pinch, prong or chain collars.
• Tethered space must be clear of excess waste.
• No open sores or wounds on the dog's body.

Media contact: Media@LititzPD.org