An animal cruelty ordinance has gone into effect in the City of Glendale after partnering with the Arizona Humane Society.
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According to officials, a ban on tethering, ventilation requirements including animals in cars, as well as more exercise space and a $500 bond per animal seizure are provisions to ordinances that now make Glendale's ordinances "superior to the state statue."
- Exercise space: Animals must have enough exercise space if they are enclosed, and the enclosure must be made of material that cannot injure the animal.
- Ventilation: Animals must have enough ventilation and also have protection from extreme temperatures; it is unlawful for an animal to be kept inside a vehicle or in other enclosed spaces when the temperatures can reach high or low levels, or when ventilation would become inadequate.
- Tethering: Horses can be temporarily tethered, but tie-outs like chains, leashes, wires, cables, ropes or other devices is prohibited to be used on all other pets.
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These ordinances enhance the police department's "capability to protect animals" against abuse and cruelty, according to Glendale Chief of Police Rick St. John.
All the above are Class 1 misdemeanors, violations are punishable with a fine of up to $2,500, six months in jail and/or three years probation.
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Officials said just last year alone, there were more than 11,000 animal rescues and investigations within Maricopa County.
In 2016, a Glendale woman arrested after 52 neglected dogs were found in her home.
Glendale police said they plan to educate the public and then enforce the laws except in extreme incidents.
