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Barking DogsProcedures for dealing with barking dogs in your neighbourhood. Barking DogsDogs bark for a number of reasons, but regardless of the cause the end result is a nuisance to neighbours and a has serious effect on the quality of life for those affected. The following procedures are provided as guidelines for alleviating the problems associated with a dog in the neighbourhood. First - DISCUSSIf you have not already done so you should discuss the problem with the owner of the problem dog. He or she may not be aware that a nuisance exists as the barking of their own dog may not be a problem to them but may be offensive to you. In most cases owners want to do the right thing and will co-operate. Should this not be successful and the owner is unwilling to co-operate, you should - Next - MEDIATEContact the Community Justice Centre at Cnr Bolton & Church Streets, Newcastle Ph (02) 4929 1211. This is a free service and they specialise in solving problems by mediation with no obligations imposed unless agreed to by both parties. Last - COMPLAINShould both of the above steps be unsuccessful a formal written complaint should be lodged with Council. Council will determine the validity of the complaint and may decide to take appropriate legal action. This of course should only be a last resort. Why does your dog bark?Dogs that bark continually can be annoying for both you and your neighbours. If your dog is barking it may be because it: - is bored - needs exercise - wants attention - may suffer from seperation anxiety - lacks shelter, water, food - may need veterinary attention The most common problem these days is that people go off to work and leave our dogs to their own devices all day and the only way they know how to complain about being left alone is to bark. Can you imagine sitting in your backyard on your own for 8 hours a day with nothing to do? What can you do about your barking dog?We're not suggesting you should stay home and entertain the dog all day every day, however, there are a number of simple things you can do to stop your dog barking: - Walk you dog for al least 15 minutes each day; - Leave toys out for your dog to play iwth when you're not there; - Make sure your dog has plenty of water, food and shelter from both the sun and rain - and check them regulary; - Play with your dog when you are home; and - Make sure your dog is regularly wormed and receiveds veterinary attention when necessary. If you are already doing all of the above and your dog is still barking you may need to seek advice from an animal behaviour specialist. The Department of Environment & Conservation (NSW) put out a document on dealing with barking dogs. Contact details | |||||||||
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© 2006 Gloucester Shire Council |
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