Public Safety & Chaining
Since 1965, ten (10) children have died as a result of a dog attack in South Carolina. Seven out of ten (70%) of these children were killed by a dog which was maintained by chaining.
Chaining, by definition, keeps a dog in solitary confinement, creating severe psychological, emotional, and behavioral effects.A chained dog can never be afforded the same level of socialization and the opportunity to learn appropriate behaviors as a dog maintained within the home.
Chained dogs have a well defined and limited territory and therefore may exhibit heightened territorial aggression.Chained dogs cannot flee a threatening or fearful situation, increasing the probability of a defensive (fear) bite or attack (flight versus fight).
Chained dogs are not able to release pent up energy or frustration and this may increase abnormal or aggressive behavior (pacing, barking, straining at chain, etc.).Chained dogs are usually not vaccinated, which presents a disease threat if the dog bites someone.
How does tethering or chaining dogs pose a danger to humans?
Dogs tethered for long periods can become highly aggressive. Dogs feel naturally protective of their territory; when confronted with a perceived threat, they respond according to their fight-or-flight instinct. A chained dog, unable to take flight, often feels forced to fight, attacking any unfamiliar animal or person who unwittingly wanders into his or her territory.
Numerous attacks on people by tethered dogs have been documented. The Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association reported that 17% of dogs involved in fatal attacks on humans between 1979 and 1998 were restrained on their owners’ property at the time of the attack, and the book Fatal Dog Attacks states that 25% of fatal attacks were inflicted by chained dogs of many different breeds.
Tragically, the victims of such attacks are often children who are unaware of the chained dog’s presence until it is too late. Furthermore, a tethered dog who finally does get loose from his chains may remain aggressive, and is likely to chase and attack unsuspecting passersby and pets.