Is It Illegal to Leave Your Pet Chained Outside in Hawaii? Here's What the Law Says

In Hawaii, it is illegal to leave your pet dog chained outside under certain conditions, primarily due to laws aimed at preventing animal cruelty. The relevant statutes outline specific restrictions regarding the tethering of dogs.

Key Provisions of Hawaii’s Animal Cruelty Laws

Tethering Restrictions: Under Hawaii Revised Statutes §711-1109, it is considered cruelty to animals if a person:
- Tethers or restrains a dog using a choke, pinch, or prong collar unless the dog is engaged in supervised activities.
- Tethers a dog under six months of age unless it is under direct supervision.
- Uses inappropriate restraints such as tow chains, which can cause injury or prevent the dog from obtaining necessary sustenance.
Continuous Tethering: The law explicitly states that leaving a dog tethered outdoors for more than 24 consecutive hours is prohibited. This is based on the understanding that continuous tethering can lead to physical and psychological harm to the animal.
Local Regulations: In addition to state laws, local ordinances may impose further restrictions on tethering practices. For example, some counties may have specific regulations regarding the conditions under which dogs can be tethered outside.
Enforcement and Penalties: Violations of these laws can result in misdemeanor charges, with penalties including fines and potential criminal charges depending on the severity of the offense.

In summary, while some forms of tethering are permitted under specific circumstances, leaving a pet dog chained outside without supervision or for extended periods is illegal in Hawaii and can be classified as animal cruelty.