Caracol Creek/Heights Community

#1 Complaint - Barking Dogs

Mar 13, 2008

The single most common complaint received by the management company concerns barking dogs!
Why do dogs bark? Dogs may bark for a number of reasons including:
?• To warn of somebody entering the property
?• Due to boredom
?• Distractions, such as birds flying over
?• Separation anxiety (loneliness)
?• Hyper activity (lack of regular exercise)
What can I do about nuisance barking? People have a right to enjoy peace and quiet within the neighborhood. Animal owners have a responsibility to ensure their animals do not cause a nuisance. With most neighborhood nuisances, approaching the neighbor directly usually resolves the problem. You should consider approaching the owner amicably to advise them that the animal is causing a nuisance, as they may not be aware of it. This avoids the need to become involved in legal processes that are often time consuming and damaging to neighborly relations.
Making a complaint. Management will take complaints; action may be taken upon receipt of written complaint from at least two occupiers of different premises. Upon receipt of these two letters the association will send the appropriate notice to the responsible party instructing them to cease any nuisance noise.
What if the nuisance continues? Most owners take positive action to ensure nuisances do not continue, however in the event that it does continue the Association may request legal assistance in accordance with the legal documents of the Association. It is important to remember that should legal action be taken you will be required to pay all legal fees for noncompliance.
What can I do if I own a barking dog? You may have been served a Notice to Comply or your neighbor has spoken to you about the problem. The most important thing to do is not ignore the matter. There a number of things you can do if you have a barking dog that causes a nuisance. The first step is to find out why the dog is barking. Once you have ascertained why the dog is barking you should consider the following:
?• Remove any distractions
?• Socialize the dog
?• Ensure it is regularly exercised and you spend time with it
?• Supply toys or other items to reduce boredom
?• Become involved in obedience training
It would be worthwhile to seek advice from your veterinarian or a professional dog trainer who can help you with the problem. Anti barking collars can be obtained to assist in reducing any barking. You can obtain these collars from a number of places. It is important you follow the advice given when using these collars.
Be a considerate neighbor and address any nuisance barking your pet may make.
Submitted by Suzanne Sneed
Professional Management Assist