DOVER, Del.- Delaware lawmakers are eyeing a bill aimed at keeping dogs from being left outside in dangerous weather conditions.
Senate Bill 139 would bar dog owners from allowing their dog to stay outside unattended for more than 15 minutes, if there are weather conditions that would pose an adverse risk to their health and safety.
Currently, Delaware only requires dog owners to bring their dogs inside during bad weather if the National Weather Service issues a hazardous weather warning.
A National Weather Service warning could also trigger a requirement that dogs be brought inside under the new bill.
The bill does exempt dogs who have shelters that are impervious to rain and wind proof, among other qualities.
First time violations of the proposed law could lead to a $100 fine for a dog owner, while repeat offenders could face fines of up to $500.
