Unleash the hounds -- after an hour

A proposed ordinance in Alexandria would bar dog owners from tethering their pets outside for more than an hour.

If it passes, the restriction would affect people who tie up their dogs outside restaurants in Old Town — a common practice in the summer.

Violators would face fines starting at $50.

Vice Mayor Kerry Donley says the intent is to protect dogs from neglectful owners. Officials say they also get complaints from residents about barking dogs left outside.

Donley asked the City Council to hold off on a final vote until June to give residents and the city's Animal Welfare League a chance to weigh in.
———
Information from: The Washington Examiner, http://www.dcexaminer.com/