When you live in close proximity to neighbors, you cant expect total silence. Whether its a kid banging on his drums or an especially enthusiastic game of kickball in the street, some noise is part of life in a populated area. With that in mind, consider if the amount of barking is really worth involving the police or animal control.
You can call the animal control department of your local police on a barking dog, but it should only be used as a last resort for excessive barking. If your neighbors dog barks a lot, it can be annoying, but you should address it with a measured response rather than going straight to the law. There should be a few steps between the dog barking and you calling the police.
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If the neighbor seems receptive, offer ideas about how to reduce the barking such as letting the dog spend more time indoors or providing extra walks and lots of playtime. If shes not receptive, tell her that if things dont change, you may have no choice but to call animal control. Police and animal control should not be used as a weapon against your neighbors. Instead, calling them should be reserved for when all else has failed or when the dog appears to be in distress.
Laws regarding dogs barking vary by location, so take the time to learn the law where you live. You could bring a copy of this information along when you talk to your neighbor. Knowing the law can also help you decide if calling the police is really the route you want to take. For example, if you learn the homeowner will get a $500 fine and possibly have the dog removed from her home, would you still want to call?
Talk to Your Neighbor About Their Barking Dog
If youâve got a good relationship with your neighbor, the most obvious place to start is by talking to them.
You might also try writing your neighbor a letter. Youâll find several sample dog-barking complaint letters online, but the best ones:
Keep in mind that there are several reasons dogs bark. They could be protecting their territory or feeling bored, anxious, hungry, or lonely. Also, the key here is excessive barking. Dogs are allowed to bark; itâs how they communicate. When it goes on for too long â and thatâs up to you and your local ordinance â then itâs time to call for help.
If a dog is being abused or neglected
If you suspect the dog is injured or being mistreated, the ASPCA has several guidelines for reporting animal cruelty:
You may submit an anonymous report, but consider including your contact information in case authorities need to reach you.