08/27/2026
Beau’s Law Takes Effect Oct. 1, Setting New Standards for Dogs Kept Outdoors in Alabama
Alabama dog owners will soon have new statewide requirements to follow when keeping dogs outdoors as Beau’s Law takes effect Oct. 1, 2026.
Senate Bill 361, sponsored by State Sen. Garlan Gudger of Cullman, was enacted in April and establishes standards governing the food, water, shelter, confinement and tethering of dogs.
The legislation was named for Beau, a dog whose story gained widespread attention after he was found outside during cold weather with cardboard serving as his primary shelter.
🐾 FOOD AND WATER
Under Beau’s Law, dogs must receive adequate food at suitable intervals and in amounts sufficient to prevent starvation or a significant health risk. Owners must also provide potable water frequently and in sufficient quantities to prevent dehydration.
🏠 SHELTER REQUIREMENTS
Dogs kept outdoors must have adequate protection from the elements. The law establishes standards for shelters and requires outdoor confinement areas to provide dogs enough room to move freely.
The legislation is intended to establish a statewide minimum standard for dogs kept outside, including requirements for appropriate shelter, food, water and living conditions.
🐕 NEW TETHERING RULES
Beau’s Law also establishes specific requirements for tethering dogs.
A dog generally cannot be tethered directly to a stationary object such as a tree, pole, stake or structure unless a legally compliant trolley system is used.
Tethers must be attached to a properly fitted collar or harness and include swivels on both ends to reduce tangling. They cannot allow a dog to leave the owner’s property, become entangled with other animals or objects, or extend over an edge or object that could cause injury or strangulation.
Dogs on a tether must also maintain access to adequate food, water and shelter.
The law prohibits certain equipment for tethering, including logging chains and choke or pinch collars.
⚖️ VIOLATIONS CAN RESULT IN CRIMINAL CHARGES
Violating Beau’s Law can result in criminal penalties.
Under the enacted legislation, a first offense is a Class C misdemeanor, while subsequent offenses are Class A misdemeanors. A person who violates the law can also be required to pay the full cost of boarding and veterinary care provided to the dog.
Animal control and law enforcement officers will have enforcement authority, and a certified law enforcement officer who has probable cause to believe a violation occurred may remove a dog if the officer believes its life is in danger or order the owner to provide necessary care.
🐶 SOME SITUATIONS ARE EXEMPT
Beau’s Law contains exemptions covering certain circumstances and activities, including veterinary practices, animal shelters, boarding kennels, grooming facilities, lawful dog training and temporary situations. Certain service, assistance and working-dog activities are also addressed by the law.
The new requirements officially take effect statewide on Oct. 1, 2026.
Dog owners who keep their animals outdoors are encouraged to review the requirements before the effective date and make any necessary changes to their dogs’ shelter, enclosure or tethering setup.
Read Alabama’s Beau’s Law (SB361)
