Update on Alabama SB361: Protecting Dogs Through Humane Tethering Standards

Alabama’s SB361 — a bill designed to strengthen protections for dogs kept outdoors — received its scheduled hearing on March 18, 2026 before the House Agriculture & Forestry Committee. As of today, the bill has not yet advanced and remains listed as “Pending in Committee.”  


This means the committee has not taken a formal vote, and no report has been posted. The bill is still alive, and public support is still urgently needed.

What SB361 Would Do
SB361 creates clear, statewide standards to ensure dogs kept outdoors are treated humanely. The bill would:

- Establish safe tethering rules to prevent choking, injury, and dangerous confinement  
- Require adequate shelter, food, water, and space  
- Prohibit heavy chains and unsafe restraints  
- Empower animal control officers to intervene when dogs are at risk  
- Protect working dogs (hunting, herding, K‑9 units) through reasonable exemptions  

These are basic, common‑sense protections that help prevent neglect and suffering before it happens.

 Where the Bill Stands Now
- The March 18 hearing was held as scheduled.  
- No committee vote has been recorded yet.  
- The bill has not moved to the House floor.  

This is a critical window — lawmakers often make decisions shortly after hearings, and constituent voices can influence the outcome.
How You Can Help Right Now
Supporters can make a real difference by contacting lawmakers and urging a YES vote on SB361.

Here’s what to do:
Contact members of the House Agriculture & Forestry Committee
They are the ones who decide whether the bill moves forward.

Contact your own Alabama House representative
Ask them to support SB361 when it reaches the floor.

Share this update
Spread the word on social media, in community groups, and with local animal advocates.

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