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Howling Dog

9 replies

Bitlost · 23/04/2017 16:40

Today 16:32 Bitlost

My neighbours' dog howls every time they leave him alone. It goes on for hours on end until they return. It's super loud and can be heard from across the road and all the way down the street.

I'm concerned about the dog, who is clearly distressed and very unhappy, but also for my family as it's starting to affect our lives (can't work from home, dd finding it difficult to concentrate on homework...)

Neighbours say they've tried "everything" (not sure what measures this involves).

What would you do if you were me?

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CornflakeHomunculus · 23/04/2017 16:51

If the owners are aware and things aren't improving then I'm not sure what else you can do other than make an official noise complaint to your local council.

Separation anxiety can be extremely difficult to deal with, especially if the owners can't get time off work to help the dog, but it's not fair on the dog to be left howling nor is it fair on all the neighbours who have to put up with the noise.

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Judashascomeintosomemoney · 23/04/2017 16:56

They tried everything except not leaving the poor dog alone for hours apparently! I guess if the it's just the noise that's bothering you then you report it to the council noise abatement team but if it's the dogs welfare you're more concerned with, the RSPCA, not sure how interested they'd be though.

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Wolfiefan · 23/04/2017 16:58

RSPCA won't care. If the dog is fed and watered and has shelter they won't intervene.
Council for noise.
Neighbourhood warden if such a thing exists.
The dog shouldn't be left alone. It's hard. My dog has some separation anxiety and we have worked on it but I couldn't just leave her alone to be upset.

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Bitlost · 23/04/2017 17:04

Thank you. I agree - they shouldn't leave him alone. I don't trust them when they say they've tried everything so wanted to give them some suggestions. I thought of doggycreche/dog sitter... Any other suggestions?

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missyB1 · 23/04/2017 17:12

The dog may have separation anxiety or could simply be bored and frustrated. They should employ a dog walker to tire the dog out in a good long walk. It's cruel to get a dog and leave them alone all day.

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Bitlost · 23/04/2017 17:29

There is a dog walker who comes in. can't say i would entrust any pets of mine with her but she does take him out...and then back and the howling resumes...

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missyB1 · 23/04/2017 18:45

Sounds like a behaviourist is needed then.

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metalmum15 · 23/04/2017 19:54

Get on to the council. You need to keep a 2 week diary of dates/times, and how it's affecting you (interrupting sleep, work etc). The council will pay them a visit and send them a warning letter. If it carries then they can be prosecuted and fined anywhere up to £5000. Councils have a lot more authority regarding noise nuisance and barking dogs than they used to.