WHAT PEOPLE CAN DO ABOUT DOGS WHO BARK FOR HOURS ON END

Source: Gloucestershire Live (Extract)
Posted: September 18, 2022

Dogs barking for hours on end can drive people to despair – and many vent their frustrations on social media.

However, more often than not, it is the dog owners themselves who are not always aware their canine companion is distressing their neighbours.

As not everyone uses social media or is happy to confront noisy neighbours, dog owners may be blissfully unaware of what their pet is up to when they are out. There is help and advice out there for anyone pulling their hair out over the constant barking or for those people who have genuine concerns for the animal.

An RSPCA spokesperson said: “Dogs bark for many reasons and may not necessarily be in distress. In the first instance, we encourage people to contact their local authority and make a noise complaint here.

“They will contact us if they have further welfare concerns. If someone has seen the dog and is concerned the dog is sick or injured, please call us on 0300 1234 999.

“It’s possible the owner isn’t aware that their dog is barking while they’re away. We’d encourage people to let their neighbour know what’s going on while they’re out. They might find this guide helpful.“

Gloucester City Council says it will take action if the noise continues to become a nuisance.

A spokesperson for Gloucester City Council said: “We sympathise with residents experiencing noise issues. Residents are advised to speak to their neighbours with any nuisance noise complaints initially, as their neighbours may not be aware.

“If we receive a report and believe there could be enough to constitute a statutory nuisance, we would write to the premises of complaint with advice on how to address the issue.”