City of Dallas outlaws leaving unattended dogs tied up

The city of Dallas is banning the practice of leaving dogs tied up outside and left alone.

According to the city code that will go into effect February 1, tethering is only allowed in very specific situations. The owner has to be present and has to use a properly fitted collar or harness, but the tethering device cannot be attached directly to the dog's neck.

The changes come after months of debate on the practice of tethering and how to best handle the city's loose dog issue.

Violators of the new ordinance could face up to a $500 fine.