By Roger Lanse
The Silver City Town Council approved amendments to Sections 6-187 and 6-190 of the town’s municipal code regarding animals running loose and the providing of proper care and maintenance, sponsored by District 1 Councilor Cynthia Bettison.
One amendment is “really is to ensure that folks have their animal on a lead when they’re out in public,” Bettison said. The other amendments prohibit single-point tethering of animals whether on public or private property, with exceptions for working, hunting, or search and rescue dogs. For those pet owners who have no enclosure or fenced yards, a trolley system of tethering is recommended. Access for the dog to shelter, fresh water and fresh food is the driving force behind the ban on single-point tethering, Bettison said.