In 2004, Tony Vincent found a Doberman puppy tied to a tree with a chain. The choke-chain collar that was dug two into her neck had to be surgically removed. Vincent rescued the pup, adopted her, and named her Nikki.
Since then, Nikki has become the de facto face for the Humane Society's "Break the Chain" campaign, which seeks to have dogs tied to trees without food, water, or shade to be banned.
That law will be going before commissioners in Broward on Tuesday.
Vincent has been visiting City Halls in Broward to urge them to ban the chaining of dogs to trees. He also visited local schools and summer camps to teach children about the cruelties and awfulness of chaining animals.
The law basically states that dogs can be tethered to a pole or tree only if its owner (or walker) is around. And even then, the dog would have to have food and clean water and be tethered in a cool shady spot.
Those breaking the law would be subject to a $250 fine, with repeat violators being fined $500.
As of now Oakland Park, Parkland, Pembroke Park, Pembroke Pines, Pompano Beach, Southwest Ranches, Wilton Manors, Hollywood, Miramar, Dania Beach, Deerfield Beach, Coconut Creek and Fort Lauderdale all have similar laws in place.
The Animal Rights Foundation of Florida is looking to get other cities throughout the county to jump in on the law.
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