Beau's Law goes into effect Oct. 1: What it means for outdoor pets

A new law aimed at protecting the health and well being of pets is set to go into effect Thursday, Oct. 1 across Alabama.

SB 361, more commonly known as Beau’s Law, made its way through the Alabama legislature earlier this year and was signed into law. The legislation officially gives approval to a ban of tethering dogs to stationary objects without providing adequate shelter, food or water.

Here’s what you need to know if you keep your pets outdoors.

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Beau’s Law in Alabama

If dogs are tethered outside, they must be provided with shelter that shields them adequately from the elements and inclement weather.

The tether, or leash, must:

Be attached to a properly-fitted collar or harness + have a swivel on both ends to minimize tangling
Not be unreasonably heavy in relation to the dog’s weight
Not allow the dog to leave the property of the person responsible for the dog
Not extend over an object or edge that could potentially hurt the dog or strangle it
Not be attached to a logging chain, choke collar or pinch collar

The new law also mandates unlimited access to shelter for outdoor pets. The shelter must:

Have a roof, walls + floors
Have space for the dog to stand up, lie down, turn around + stretch
Be made of durable materials (including chain-link + electric fencing) with all four sides enclosed + provide ventilation
Be free from accumulated waste, standing water + debris