It's Unchain A Dog Month: Is Pet Tethering In ID, WA, UT Harmful?

Idaho is a dog-loving state. One of the best things a pet owner can do for their hound(s) is to know when it's in their best interest to be tethered or leashed.

One of the earliest memories I have as a kid is watching our family dog 'Max,' a German Shepherd, roam the backyard on his chain and take naps in his wooden doghouse. This was the early eighties, and dogs weren't allowed in our home in my elementary school years.

Nowadays, you seldom see dogs tethered in yards. Every dog owner I know allows them to roam freely about the property and house. It used to not be that way.

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January Is 'Unchain A Dog Month' in The United States

Credit: Greg Jannetta

The only time we put our dogs on chains or tethers is when camping. Running the risk of allowing our animal to enter into someone else's campsite or take off into the woods is why we do it, and I think it's what a responsible pet owner should do. There's also the chance a dog fight could break out or someone could get bit too.

I had never heard of National Unchain A Dog Month until this week, but apparently it's a legit thing. The purpose is not to promote irresponsible dog ownership, but instead remind people who regularly tether dogs to allow them some freedom to exercise as often as possible.

Too much tethering can cause depression and feelings of isolation in dogs. And certainly, dogs should never be chained outdoors during the winter months.