Vote delayed on dog tethering in Orange

County commissioners put off decision after 60 speakers sound off

HILLSBOROUGH -- A standing room-only crowd packed the Orange County Commissioners' meeting Tuesday night to speak out about proposed rules that would restrict dog tethering.

With more than 60 people signed up to speak at the hearing, commissioners indicated they would again delay making a decision on the rules.

"I'm not ready to make a decision on this tonight," Commissioner Moses Carey said. "We need time to percolate."

The proposed rules would limit tethering to three hours in a 24-hour period, specify the equipment that can be used for tethering and set minimum sizes for outdoor pens. The rules would be implemented after an 18-month public education period.

The commissioners considered the rules May 20, but delayed a decision after emotional testimony from supporters and opponents.

At Tuesday's hearing, supporters said tethering restrictions would improve animal welfare, protect public safety and reduce the number of unwanted puppies.

Ross Oglesbee, chairwoman of the Orange County Animal Services Advisory Board, said people have an obligation to protect dogs.

"The overwhelming information about this issue is that the quality of life for dogs, and their well-meaning humans, would be improved if tethering was limited or eliminated entirely," she said.

But Charles Best, a hunter, said dogs can be neglected whether they are tethered or held in pens.

"I don't see that we need any more laws," he said.

Before the meeting, supporters and opponents of the rules huddled under umbrellas in separate camps, talking with television crews. About 20 opponents, wearing orange caps, stood across the street from the courthouse. Meanwhile, a similar number of supporters held large photographs of chained and unchained dogs and signs urging the commissioners to pass the ordinance.

George Painter, president of the Eno River Coon Hunters Association, said he will continue to oppose the rules.

"I think the county commissioners are going to stir up more than they thought," he said.

By press time, testimony on the issue had not ended.