Declare Independence for Dogs

On the Fourth of July, Americans from sea to shining sea will commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence more than 200 years ago. As we celebrate the colonists’ determination to be free from British rule by setting off fireworks and hosting backyard barbecues, how many of us will notice that some Americans remain in bondage—sometimes just a few feet from the grill?

From Chesapeake Bay retrievers to Boston terriers to Alaskan malamutes, millions of dogs live their entire lives—24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year—in chains. They get food when their owners remember to toss it out the back door. They get a drink whenever they manage to avoid tipping over their water bowls. The last time they got a walk, James Madison was in the White House. Entertainment options? Snapping at the flies circling their heads, gnawing on their chains, and watching their families flip burgers and twirl sparklers up on the deck.

Unchain Your Dogs, America!

Dogs, like people, are social animals. They crave contact with humans and other dogs. Being stuck outside alone is like being a prisoner of war—only dogs are not our enemies, there is no war, and they are never going to be set free. That is, unless those who think that chaining a dog is an act of betrayal worthy of Benedict Arnold do something about it.

If you know of a backyard dog, why not do what you can to make his or her life a little better? Here are just a few of the ways you can improve the life of an “outside dog”:

Let owners of backyard dogs know that dogs need food, water, shelter, exercise, and regular trips to the veterinarian. Tell them that Fourth of July fireworks can be especially frightening to outside dogs, and urge them to let dogs inside during fireworks displays. Click here to download an informational leaflet to share with owners of chained dogs.
Offer to take “forgotten” dogs for walks. Stop by for visits and take treats and toys along. These can mean the world to a neglected dog.
Offer to provide a doghouse and bedding if the dog doesn’t have them. (In the Tidewater area of Virginia, PETA offers free doghouses for neglected dogs. If you live in southeastern Virginia or northeastern North Carolina, call 757-622-7382 for more information.)
Offer to build or repair a fence so that the dog can be taken off the chain. If that isn’t feasible, provide the dog with running line so that he or she can exercise more freely.
Call your local humane society or animal control to report neglect. If possible, take pictures and write down dates and times when the dog goes without food, water, or shelter. “Complain” about barking. Barking dogs are often lonely, neglected dogs. Click here to download an “Unchain a Dog” pack with more tips and information.
Make chaining a crime! Work with your local legislators to follow in the footsteps of more than 70 jurisdictions across the country by passing restrictions or a ban on chaining. Click here for a list of existing ordinances.
Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper, explaining why chaining dogs is dangerous to the community. Explain that chained dogs are unable to flee from threats and often attack humans who approach them—especially children, who often wander unawares into chained dogs’ territory. Click here for tips on how to compose a letter to the editor.

You can improve the lives of dogs and cats suffering from cruelty and neglect.

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SEE ALSO
Watch PETA’s Chained-Dog PSA Starring Ricki Lake
PETA’s New Billboard Educates People About the Dangers of Chaining Dogs
Show You Care With a “Friends Don’t Chain Friends” T-Shirt
Support PETA’s Vital Work to Help Animals

more ways to help
	Help Out at Your Local Shelter
	Never Buy Animals From Pet Stores or Breeders
	Spay/Neuter Immediately
	Sponsor a Needy Dog or Cat