"Learn what you can do to improve the life of a chained dog. Get tips for talking to the guardian of a chained dog from your local SPCA. It is up to people like you to improve the lives of chained dogs."

This quote is from the SPCA NEWS VICTORIA BRANCH WINTER 2004 - Paw Prints newsletter.

I am very concerned that, in fact, fewer chained dogs will be helped because of this SPCA suggestion to the public. I think it extremely unwise to suggest a worried neighbour or a concerned member of the public approach the guardian of a chained dog. Very few people would welcome suggestions from a stranger knocking on their door and most would probably view this type of approach as interference.

A person already chaining a dog 24/7 is unlikely to have any compassion for a dog and most likely would not be receptive to outside suggestions. More often than not, chaining a dog is an act that signifies that the owner is aggressively demonstrating power and control and doesn't care about the animal's needs. Very few neighbours or members of the public would want to antagonize the owner of a chained dog fearing the possibility of some sort of revenge action on their family or property.

The proper procedure already exists under current legislation. Only properly authorized officers from the SPCA should be responsible for dealing with owners of chained or neglected dogs because they have the training and legal power to hold the dog owner accountable under the Prevention of Cruelty Act. The duty of distressed neighbours and the general public should be to report any abuse and have a recognized officer of the Court deal immediately and effectively with the situation.

Lana Simon, President
Pacific Animal Foundation