Valencia County Commissioners approved an updated animal ordinance that outlaws the chaining of dogs, a move that instantly raised concerns and confusion among dog owners and residents, who prefer the animals on leashes.

Besides banning the chaining of dogs, Valencia County mandated microchips and required outdoor shelters like dog houses in the ordinance approved March 2, KRQE News reported.

According to KRQE News, some citizens balked at the new ordinance. “One of my main objects is this thing about not tying dogs up,” one citizen said. “Some dogs need to be tied up. Otherwise, the public is going to be in more danger.”

Another citizen raised concerns about costs to comply and the potential for penalties and fines. Dogs will need to be sheltered and contained without having to be restrained. In cases where animals are impounded three or more times, the ordinance also calls for a sterilization fee, KRQE reported.

“If I want to own an animal, I need to buy an appropriate dog house for it,” Jess Weston, the animal control director, told KRQE in explaining the new ordinance. “I need to make sure it has appropriate containment. I need to make sure it’s cared for correctly.”

There will be a grace period for dog owners to meet the requirements, Resources such as materials for dog houses and other containment materials are available for pet owners who need help. Groups like NM Dog and Animal Protection of New Mexico are stepping in to assist pet owners who need help with fencing, dog runs, spay and neuter, microchips and dog houses.

“We won’t be able to build a fence for every chained dog in Valencia County, but we’re going to do our best to help as many chained dogs stay with their families as possible,” Angel Stell with NM Dog said in the report.