Animal Protective Services of Marion, Inc. is committed to providing valuable resources for all citizens and animals. We hope you will enjoy reading our informative articles that are not to serve as legal guidance, but are in an effort to educate our community!

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We are often asked, “but don’t we already have MARC?” Let's first clarify how our organizations will work together to provide resources for our community and local law enforcement agencies.

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Marion Animal Resource Connection (MARC) and Animal Protective Services of Marion, Inc. (APSM) Bo’s Buddies share a united mission to improve the welfare of animals in Marion County, TN through collaboration, compassion, and community service.

MARC will continue its vital role in promoting responsible pet ownership through spay and neuter initiatives, community education, and adoption programs that help reduce overpopulation and find loving homes for animals in need.

APSM, operating as Bo’s Buddies, will provide a safe and secure facility to house and care for animals seized or rescued as victims of cruelty, neglect, or abandonment, in cooperation with local law enforcement agencies without being a burden on tax paying citizens.

Together, MARC and APSM will work hand in hand to ensure that animals in Marion County have the opportunity for safety, health, and a better future. By combining MARC's focus on prevention and placement with APSM’s focus on protection and shelter our organizations will create a seamless system of care that supports both animal welfare and public safety.

 

A special thank you to the Marion Tribune for sharing our articles!

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Necessary Shelter for Animals

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Tennessee is committed to ensuring that domestic animals are treated with dignity, safety, and love. Under Tennessee Code § 39‑14‑202, any person who fails unreasonably to provide necessary food, water, care, or shelter to an animal in their custody can be charged with animal cruelty. Animal cruelty is a Class A misdemeanor for a first offense with penalties of up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,500. A second or repeated animal cruelty offense is a Class E felony with up to 6 years in prison and a possible permanent ban on pet ownership.

 

What is considered necessary shelter??

Per current TN state law, the necessary shelter requirements for a dog in a person's custody that resides primarily outdoors is as follows: 

-The structure is constructed of sound and substantial material, is sufficient to protect the dog from inclement weather, and is of a size appropriate to allow the dog to maintain normal body temperature.

-The structure must have a roof and be enclosed on all sides with an entrance of adequate size for the dog to enter, and have dimensions that allow the dog, while in the shelter, to stand erect, sit, turn around, and lie down in a normal position.

-The structure provides a solid surface, resting platform, pad, floormat, or similar device that is large enough for the dog to lie on in a normal manner and that can be maintained in a sanitary manner.

-From March through October, the structure is properly shaded, and from November through February, when necessary to protect the dog from cold and promote the retention of body heat, the shelter is fitted with a sufficient quantity of bedding material; and the structure or structures must be of a sufficient size or number to provide shelter to each dog present at the same time.

 

Caring for one's own animals is not only a moral obligation, it also carries legal weight. While Tennessee Code § 5‑1‑120 allows counties to operate animal shelters, it does not require them to do so. This has led to inconsistency in enforcement and care across many states.

Fortunately, many communities like ours are stepping up to close that gap. With your support, organizations like Bo’s Buddies can continue to work with local officials, enforce humane standards, and protect animals in need.  By staying informed and involved, we can ensure that Marion County remains a safe and compassionate place for all citizens and animals.

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Necessary Food, Water and Care for Animals

 

            An important part of Tennessee Code § 39-14-202 animal cruelty statute states that it is illegal when someone fails unreasonably to provide necessary food, water, or care for an animal in the person’s custody. This law follows common animal welfare standards to define what necessary food, water, or care mean.

 

What is necessary food?

Animals need the right kind of food to stay healthy. This means:

• Food made especially for the type of animal, like dog food or cat food.

• The food should be good for the animal’s age, size, and health.

• It should be given every day, in the right amount.

 

Bad examples include:

• Not feeding them enough, so they become very thin.

•  Giving an animal only table scraps or unsafe human food.

 

What is Necessary Water?

Animals need clean water all the time. This means:

• Fresh, safe water in a clean bowl they can reach.

• The bowl should not be empty, dirty, frozen, or too far away.

 

Bad examples include:

• A dry or empty water bowl.

• Water that has dirt, algae, or waste in it.

• Frozen water bowls in the winter.

 

What is Necessary Care?

Taking care of an animal means more than just food and water. It also means:

• Shelter from rain, heat, and cold.

• Keeping them clean and brushing their fur.

• Taking them to the vet if they are sick or hurt.

• Protecting them from things that can hurt them.

Bad examples include:

• No shade or shelter when it's very hot or cold.

• Not treating illnesses or injuries.

• Fur that is full of fleas or ticks.

•  Leaving an animal in a hot car or tied up without shade.

 

Let’s all do our part to make sure every pet is safe, fed, and cared for! Providing daily, responsible, and humane care is both a legal duty and a moral responsibility. 

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Legal Steps Allowed by Tennessee State Law

What the Law Says

Tennessee law protects animals not just from abuse, but also from neglect. Neglect means not giving animals the food, water, care or shelter they need. The TN  Code § 39-14-207 (2024) explains what people can do to help animals in need.

If an Animal is Confined Without Care

If an animal is locked up (in a cage, kennel, or pen) and does not have food, or water for more than 12 hours, anyone may:

• Enter the place where the animal is kept
   

• Give the animal food and water
   

• Not be in legal trouble for entering, as long as it’s only to help the animal *
   

• Ask the owner to pay back the reasonable cost of the food or water
   

*Important: Before entering, you must call local law enforcement and explain why you need to enter.

If an Animal is Found Wandering and Suffering

If an animal is loose in public and is hurt, sick, starving, or suffering from the weather, a humane society agent may:

• Give emergency help, such as food, shelter, or vet care
   

• Ask the owner to pay back the reasonable cost of care
   

• Try to contact the owner within 48 hours
   

If the owner doesn’t want to pay, they can give the animal up to a humane society instead.

Why This Matters

These laws are in place to prevent animals from suffering. The law allows people and humane agents to act quickly, while still protecting owners’ rights and making sure law enforcement is notified.

If you ever see an animal locked up without food or water, or suffering in public, call local law enforcement before you act. Tennessee law supports helping animals in need.

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Unreasonable Abandonment of Animals and Cruel Transport or Confinement

 

What does “abandonment” mean?
Tennessee law (TN Code § 39-14-202) says it is against the law to unreasonably abandon an animal. This means you cannot leave your pet or another animal behind without food, shelter, or safety. If an animal is left alone and suffers from hunger, exposure to weather, or danger, it is considered cruelty under the law.

Cruel transport or confinement
The law also says animals must not be transported or kept in a cruel way. For example:

• Leaving an animal inside a hot or freezing car

• Using cages or containers that are too small for the animal to move

• Transporting animals without fresh air or water

Why does this matter?
Tennessee law makes it clear that animals must be treated with basic care, respect, and compassion. Whether it's ensuring they are not abandoned, left in unsafe conditions, or transported inhumanely, the law holds caregivers accountable. At Animal Protective Services of Marion, Inc., we believe that understanding these laws helps protect animals and promotes a more responsible, caring community. Stay informed, speak up for those who cannot, and help us make Marion County a safer place for all animals.

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Tying, Tethering and Restraining a Dog

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What the Law Says

Tennessee Code § 39-14-202 makes it a crime to tie, tether, or restrain a dog in a way that causes bodily injury as defined in TN Code § 39-11-106. This means it is illegal if the dog is hurt or suffers because of the way it is restrained. Examples include:

• Tying a dog too tightly, causing neck wounds, cuts, or strangulation

• Using heavy chains or ropes that injure the dog or tangle around them

• Leaving a dog tied up for long periods without supervision

• Exposing a dog to extreme heat, cold, or storms without shelter

• Preventing a dog from reaching food, water, or shade

“Bodily injury” includes cuts, broken bones, strangulation, poor health, or any condition that causes pain or suffering.

State and Local Rules

Tennessee does not have one detailed law that only covers tethering, but tethering falls under the state’s animal cruelty laws, especially § 39-14-202(b). Some counties and cities may have even stricter rules, so always check your local ordinances.

Best Practices for Humane Tethering

If you must tether your dog, follow these safe practices:

• Use a well-fitted harness, never a choke chain or collar

• Make sure the tether is:

  • 10–15 feet long

  • Free of tangles

  • Attached to a swivel on both ends

• Always provide:

  • Clean water

  • Adequate shelter

  • Shade in hot weather and bedding in cold weather

Important: Never tether a dog in extreme weather conditions.

Why It Matters

Tethering may look simple, but when done the wrong way it can cause serious harm and even legal trouble. By following Tennessee law and practicing humane tethering, we can protect dogs from needless suffering.

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Rabies Vaccines

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Why Rabies Vaccine are Important

Rabies is a deadly disease that can affect both animals and people. Because it is so dangerous, Tennessee law requires that all dogs and cats be vaccinated to protect families, pets, and the community.

What the Law Says

According to Tennessee Code § 68-8-103, it is illegal to own, keep, or care for a dog or cat over six (6) months old if it has not been properly vaccinated against rabies.

Tennessee follows national rules called the Rabies Compendium, which explains how often pets need booster shots. Depending on the type of vaccine, pets usually need to be revaccinated every 1 to 3 years. Pets do not need shots more often than these guidelines require, unless a veterinarian recommends it.

Protecting Animals and People

Keeping pets up to date on rabies vaccines is one of the easiest and most important ways to protect both animals and humans. By vaccinating your pets and keeping good records, you are helping keep your home and community safe.

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Keeping Your Dog Healthy

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Keeping our dogs healthy means more than just giving them food and a safe place to live. Regular trips to the veterinarian help dogs live longer, happier, and more comfortable lives.
Basic veterinary care includes:
• Yearly checkups with a veterinarian
• Vaccinations
• Monthly flea, tick, heartworm, and parasite prevention
• Spaying or neutering

Regular checkups help catch health problems early, prevent disease, and keep dogs feeling their best as they grow older. Puppies may need to see the vet every month until their vaccines are finished. Adult dogs usually need one checkup each year. Senior dogs often benefit from two checkups a year.

In Tennessee, the law requires dogs to have a rabies vaccination every year to protect pets, people, and the community. All dogs and puppies over 6 months old must be vaccinated (many vets can give it as early as 3 months). Your vet may also recommend other vaccines, such as distemper, parvo, leptospirosis, kennel cough, Lyme disease, or canine flu, depending on your dog’s lifestyle. These vaccines can help protect dogs from serious illnesses.
 

Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention is very important in our area because parasites are common all year long. Ticks can spread diseases, and mosquitoes spread heartworms, which can be deadly. Dogs can also get intestinal worms. Monthly preventatives and regular testing help keep dogs safe and healthy.

Good food, a healthy weight, and clean teeth also help dogs feel better and avoid pain and illness. Your veterinarian can help you choose what is best for your dog during regular visits.
 

Spaying and neutering are important parts of being a responsible pet owner. These procedures help prevent unwanted puppies, lower the risk of some cancers, reduce behavior problems, and help local shelters care for fewer homeless animals. Low-cost spay and neuter help may be available through Marion Animal Resource Connection (MARC).

At Bo’s Buddies, we believe every dog deserves good care and the chance to live a happy, healthy life. 

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Keeping Your Cat Healthy

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Keeping your cat healthy goes beyond food and a litter box. Routine veterinary care is essential for comfort, longevity, and quality of life. Regular wellness exams help detect illness early and monitor weight, dental health, and age-related changes.

In Tennessee, rabies vaccination is required by law for all cats over 6 months, including indoor-only cats.  Additional recommended vaccines may include feline distemper (panleukopenia), herpesvirus, calicivirus, or feline leukemia virus (FeLV), based on lifestyle and exposure risk.  Your veterinarian can help decide which vaccines your cat needs, and the schedule on which your cat should receive them.

Parasite prevention is important year-round, and may be recommended even for indoor cats. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes are common in our region and can transmit diseases such as Bartonella (cat scratch disease) and heartworm disease. Cats can also carry intestinal parasites including roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, giardia, and coccidia. Monthly preventatives and routine testing help protect your cat and your family.

Proper nutrition, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular dental care reduce the risk of chronic disease and pain. Enrichment, play, and a low-stress environment also support mental and physical well-being. Senior cats benefit from regular checkups and lab work to monitor kidney function, thyroid health, and mobility. 

 

Preventive care helps cats live longer, healthier, and more comfortable lives.

Spaying and neutering are especially critical for cats. These procedures prevent unwanted litters, reduce the risk of certain cancers, and help decrease roaming, fighting, and community overpopulation. Local spay and neuter resources may be available through MARC.

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What to do if you find a stray animal...

 

Finding a stray animal can be upsetting, especially when you want to help but aren’t sure what the right next step is. Acting thoughtfully protects you, the animal, and the community.

First, pause and assess safety.
Even friendly animals may be scared, injured, or protective. Avoid rushing toward them. If the animal is aggressive, severely injured, or in traffic, contact local authorities for help.

Look for identification.
Check for a collar, tags, or visible identification. Many lost pets live nearby and may have simply slipped out. Visit your local veterinarian or rescue organization to scan the animal for a microchip. If it’s safe to do so, you can knock on nearby doors or ask neighbors if they recognize the animal.

Do not assume the animal was abandoned.
Lost pets often look thin, dirty, or frightened after only a short time away from home. Giving them time to be reunited with their family is important. Sharing on social media and viewing lost pet groups and pages is often helpful to find an animal’s owner.

Provide short-term help if you can.
If safe, offering water and temporary shelter from extreme heat or cold can be lifesaving. Avoid over feeding especially when an animal appears malnourished, sudden food changes can cause life threatening illness.

Contact the proper resources.
Local rescue organizations can scan for a microchip, document the find, and guide the next steps. Law enforcement can also be a valuable resource for guidance with helping animals. This helps protect the animal legally and increases the chance of a successful reunion.

Avoid rehoming a stray on your own.
Giving an animal away without proper checks can unintentionally separate it from its owner or place it in an unsafe situation. Following the proper process helps everyone involved.

Most importantly, remember this: doing the right thing doesn’t always mean doing everything yourself. It means making sure the animal is safe and connected to the right help.

At Bo’s Buddies, we believe informed actions lead to better outcomes for animals, families, and our community.