The Government is cracking down on dog owners tying up pets for long periods. 

SPCA and MPI Animal Welfare inspectors can now issue fines over dogs found tethered in poor conditions and displaying signs of frustration like excessive barking. 

Practical exemptions are included for farm dogs. 

Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard says there was a 'gaping hole' impacting animal welfare inspectors' ability to handle people who mistreat their dogs.

"They could either just offer advice or go the whole hog and take people to court - this is about having a middle step in there and hopefully preventing people from going to court and the rest of the rigmarole that goes with it." 

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