By Mayor Mark Grubbs
Source: City of Magee (Official Facebook Page)
Editor’s Note: The following statement was originally published on the City of Magee’s official Facebook page and is republished here verbatim for public awareness.
As Mayor of Magee, I want our citizens to be aware of Section 3: Tethering Regulations and make it clear that I will push for this ordinance to be enforced. Our pets cannot speak for themselves, but we can and will speak for them.
Under this ordinance, tethering dogs is not allowed, except in very specific situations:
• When a dog is tethered temporarily while receiving medical care from a licensed veterinarian or during grooming, as long as the collar or tether is applied humanely.
• When a dog is actively participating in an exhibition, show, contest, or other legal event where skill, breeding, or stamina is being judged, with humane application required.
• When a dog is being actively trained by a federal, state, or local law enforcement agency, the military, or the National Guard, with humane application required.
• When a dog is under the direct control of its owner or handler and the leash or tether is applied in a humane manner.
Each incident is treated as a separate offense. Enforcement will follow a fair but firm process:
• A first offense will result in a correction warning, requiring the issue to be corrected within 48 hours, unless the dog is in immediate danger or has already been injured.
• A second offense, or failure to comply with the first warning, will result in the removal and impoundment of the dog. This violation is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of $100 to $500, up to 30 days in jail, or both.
• If it is determined that the violation was intended as punishment or cruelty, the case will be prosecuted under applicable state animal cruelty laws.
This behavior will not be tolerated in the City of Magee.
This ordinance is not about punishment for responsible pet owners. It is about protecting animals from neglect, abuse, and unsafe conditions.
Magee will continue to stand for accountability, compassion, and doing what is right. Our pets depend on us to protect them, and we will do exactly that.
Thank you,
Mayor Mark Grubbs
Why This Matters:
City leaders say the ordinance is designed to protect animals from harm while holding offenders accountable. Residents with questions about compliance are encouraged to contact City Hall or Animal Control.
