Gwinnett clears the way for supervised tethering of dogs

More than a month after Fulton County banned the practice, Gwinnett County’s animal advisory council approved a revised ordinance that will allow dog owners to tether their pets.

The revision, which still must pass the County Commission, allows for the supervised tethering of dogs during daylight hours, and it provides for one hour of unsupervised tethering. Another revision changes elements of the county’s barking ordinance.

The change in the tethering law was sparked by comments from pet owners who do not have fenced yards but want to provide exercise for their dogs, said committee Chairwoman Gail LaBerge.

The barking ordinance was changed to give judges discretion in penalizing violators. It allows for a fine of up to $1,000 but does not carry a jail sentence.

— Patrick Fox