LIFESTYLE NEWS - Chaining an animal is a risk to your life and its own. Dogs are naturally social animals that need interaction with humans and other animals. If they are locked or tied up they will most likely have serious, permanent physical and psychological problems and are in huge danger of dying if a fire breaks out.
Even a friendly dog, when kept chained, becomes anxious and aggressive. Often their necks can become raw and sore, and their collars can grow into their skin.
They are susceptible to insect bites and parasites, are at high risk of getting tangled or strangled and are often teased or attacked by other dogs and people.
Chained dogs are not loved dogs and are usually fed badly or not at all, dehydrated and diseased.
They could also suffer from heat and cold as they mostly don't have shelter from the weather. If a fire breaks out they cannot run away.
Tying up a dog can lead to serious dog bites and attacks. Dogs unable to run from danger can act aggressively when approached.
They feel naturally protective of their territory and when confronted with danger a tied dog, unable to run away, will often attack any unfamiliar animal or person who comes close.
The victims are often children who are unaware of the risks. Even if a tethered dog gets loose from its chains it may remain aggressive, and is likely to chase and attack unsuspecting passers-by and animals because it has developed severe behavioural problems.
The SPCA believes that dogs are part of the family.
They recommend that all dogs are allowed indoors, receive regular exercise, and are given affection, healthy food, water, vaccinations and veterinary care.
They must all, by law, be sterilised and have identification - either a collar or a microchip. Outdoors they must have a safe, escape-proof enclosure with proper shelter and access to fresh water at all times.
Article: Wendy Jones, Garden Route SPCA volunteer
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