A message from the Animal Control Officer

Please be advised that a new MA law has been passed regarding leaving your dog(s) outside when a weather advisory has been issued, This includes dogs out on electric fences, in kennels or tethered.  There are a few exceptions: dogs performing herding or agricultural jobs, and arctic breeds (malamutes, huskies etc.) that are suited for cold temperatures.  Please see the law below, if any one has any questions or needs to report a concern please contact Animal Control at 508-533-3251 or the Police Department at 508-533-3212.  

MA GENERAL LAWS Chapter 140 Section 174E:

d) A person shall not leave a dog outside when a weather advisory, warning or watch is issued by a local, state or federal authority or when outside environmental conditions including, but not limited to, extreme heat, cold, wind, rain, snow or hail pose an adverse risk to the health or safety of the dog based on the dog's breed, age or physical condition, unless the tethering is for not more than 15 minutes.

 (g) A person who violates this section shall, for a first offense, be issued a written warning or punished by a fine of not more than $50, for a second offense, be punished by a fine of not more than $100 and for a third or subsequent offense, be punished by a fine of not more than $300, and be subject to impoundment of the dog in a local shelter at the owner's or guardian's expense pending compliance with this section, or loss of ownership of the dog.