ADEQUATE SHELTER
NEW CT LAW DEFINES STRONGER RULES TO PROTECT
DOGS LEFT OUTSIDE.
OUTSIDE DOGS MUST NOW BE PROVIDED WITH ADEQUATE SHELTER IN EXTREME WEATHER CONDITIONS*
CONNECTICUT GENERAL STATUTE SECTION 22-350A
EFFECTIVE OCTOBER 1, 2022
ADEQUATE SHELTER IS DEFINED AS:
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Being soundly constructed and in good repair
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Having a solid roof and walls and a wind-protected entry and exit
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Enclosed and insulated for dog to maintain normal body temperature
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Having room for dog to sit, lie down, and turn around
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Being raised two or more inches off the ground
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Providing shade and ventilation for dog to maintain normal body temperature
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Providing light during daytime hours
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Having dry bedding
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Having access to potable water at least twice per day
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Does Not have a space heater or wood/fuel-burning equipment
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IS NOT located under stairs or under/in a motor vehicle
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DOES NOT have a floor made of wire or metal chain links
LEASHES OR TETHERS FOR OUTSIDE DOGS MUST FOLLOW THESE REQUIREMENTS:
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Tether allows dog to walk eight feet in any one direction
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Tether has a swivel at both ends
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Tether is not made from a coat hanger, choke collar, prong collar, or other device not designed for a dog
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Tether does not have weights attached or metal links more than one quarter inch thick
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Tether does not allow dog to reach a hazardous object
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Tethering outdoors for no more than 15 minutes during a weather advisory or extreme weather conditions
*Extreme weather conditions include extreme heat, cold, wind, rain, or hail that would pose an adverse risk to the health or safety of a dog. Requirements are based on a dog’s breed, size, age, thickness of coat, and physical condition and apply to dogs left outside for more than 15 minutes.