Change The Laws     

Virginia lawmakers have done a reasonably decent job of protecting our animals.  It seems that often, the break-down is in our court systems.  VA DOES consider animals "companions" rather than property.  This allows for harsher sentences for those who abuse.  However, VA does still allow chaining.  Please see the VA definition below which addresses tethering:

 3.2-6500 "Adequate space" means sufficient space to allow each animal to: (i) easily stand, sit, lie, turn about, and make all other normal body movements in a comfortable, normal position for the animal; and (ii) interact safely with other animals in the enclosure. When an animal is tethered, "adequate space" means a tether that permits the above actions and is appropriate to the age and size of the animal; is attached to the animal by a properly applied collar, halter, or harness configured so as to protect the animal from injury and prevent the animal or tether from becoming entangled with other objects or animals, or from extending over an object or edge that could result in the strangulation or injury of the animal; and is at least three times the length of the animal, as measured from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail, except when the animal is being walked on a leash or is attached by a tether to a lead line. When freedom of movement would endanger the animal, temporarily and appropriately restricting movement of the animal according to professionally accepted standards for the species is considered provision of adequate space.

We, at Dogs Deserve Better, believe that ALL states need to adopt a 'no chaining' or 'limited chaining' law.

Entire Code

Title 3.2 - AGRICULTURE, ANIMAL CARE, AND FOOD