The city of Phoenix and the state of Arizona have taken steps to ensure that owned animals are protected during the scorching summer heat.

All Phoenix trails are closed to all dogs when temperatures reach 100 degrees and above. Under PCC 24-54 (failure to comply), violators could be subject to a Class One Misdemeanor that could include a fine of up to $2,500 and six months jail time.

The city also has a “no tethering” ordinance that outlaws restraining a dog outside in a way that unreasonably limits the dog’s movement during extreme weather conditions.. A restraint unreasonably limits a dog’s movement if it uses a collar that is not properly fitted; is shorter than 10 feet; places the dog in unsafe or unsanitary conditions; causes injury; or does not permit access to food, water, shade, dry ground or shelter.

A person found responsible for a first offense would be subject to a fine. Subsequent violations are a Class One misdemeanor with increasing fines and jail time. To report a suspected case of animal abuse or a violation of the tethering ordinance, call the Phoenix Police Department’s non-emergency line at 602-262-6151.

State law now protects citizens from liability for damage caused by breaking into a hot vehicle where an animal has been left unattended and there is a “good faith belief that the … domestic animal is in imminent danger of suffering physical injury or death.” For details, visit www.azhumane.org and search for “Samaritan Hot Car Bill,” then click on the PDF for HB2494.