How to deal with a neighbour’s incessant barking dog
DOUGLAS SHIRE
“The greatest fear dogs know is the fear that you will not come back when you go out the door without them.” – Stanley Coren (psychologist and author, The Intelligence of Dogs)
THIS is a phenomenon dog owners have to deal with on a daily basis and when your pet is left alone; loneliness, boredom and anxiety can set in and may result in incessant barking.
This is invariably prompted by lack of exercise or training, or new surroundings. City councils have been looking more closely at this issue but there is no guarantee they will take action.
“It is important that residents understand that dogs are allowed to bark and will do so if someone strange visits their property or they are in a new place,” a spokesperson for the Douglas Shire Council told Newsport.
“Barking must be substantiated by an investigation and deemed excessive before Council officers will take enforcement action.”
The spokesperson said Council encouraged people to chat to the owner of a barking dog if they felt comfortable doing so.
“Most people aren’t aware that their dog barks all day after they leave their house and most responsible owners are happy to find a solution once they are aware there is a problem.”
In identifying the causes of barking, Cairns Regional Council has devised a number of options owners can consider:
Lack of exercise: A tired dog won’t bark. A 20 to 40 minute walk each day will wear him out physically and mentally.
Boredom: Toys, a treasure hunt of hidden treats, or a good bone to gnaw on, are just some ideas to keep him entertained when you are away.
Being disturbed: If he’s barking every time someone walks past the house, try securing him in the backyard or other area away from traffic. Blocking his view with black plastic attached to the fence can also work.
Loneliness: Find your dog a friend, arrange a doggy play date, use a dog walker during the day (or pop home a lunchtime) or look into doggy day care.
Anxiety: If he howls whenever you leave home, try leaving your TV or radio on to provide some comforting background noise; or give him an item that has your scent so he’ll feel close to you during the day.
In the Cairns region, three complaints about barking dogs are lodged every day, and in the Douglas Shire, Council received 157 complaints last year.
“If the owner fails to address the problem, people should make a note of dates, times and duration of the barking and contact Council’s customer service on 4099 9444 to lodge a formal complaint,” said the DSC spokesperson.
“Local Laws Officers will then discuss the matter with the owner and offer some solutions. Anti-bark collars are available to the public at no charge and further enforcement action will be taken when necessary.”
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