Afraid of the neighbors dogs!!!!! - YorkieTalk.com Forums

lovelilly · 03-17-2006, 04:26 PM

I am not sure if this should be in this forum, but it has to do with the softly of my babies...so if it needs to be moved please do so.

I have some neighbors. I am not a person that likes to cause problems and I hate confrontation...but this is getting to be just to much. When we moved in they had already been here for a year. At that time they had to Rots and one brown lab. The lady told me that the Rots were as sweet as pie. They bark and growl at me all the time...and I disagree. I only have a five foot fence between us...and they will put their head over and growl viciously. It makes me nervous and scares my kids. Well, now that I have the little 12 week puppies...I am a nervous wreak because they look at not only my furbabies as snacks they bark at my kids too.
These dogs are kept on the side of the house in a Very small dog run. It is about 3 feet wide and about 15 feet long. They have one large dog house for the three of them. Well, now I find out that they have a small poodle in the house...and they got a new huge dog (looks like the dog from the movie Hootch) and they are in the house. They feed and water the dogs...but nothing else. I am a stay at home mom and I have never seen them put one in the car to take them from a walk or to a vet. They have five dogs in their house most of which weigh over 100lbs. We live in the suburbs.
We wrote them a letter about the dogs barking about a year and a half ago. They apologized but did nothing. Now it is just out of control. It would be one thing if they seemed to love these animals. They leave them outdoors even when it is -15 below or 105. When my husband first called animal control they said they could do nothing unless they could see them were not being fed and watered.
My husband and I told them we wanted to put up a six foot fence next to theirs because I am afraid. They didn't really respond. I am not sure yet with our HOA if we can.
Summer is coming and my family and my dogs are going to want to enjoy our backyard. I don't see that happening in these conditions. Any suggestions? I am not familiar with the law when it comes to animals. Is there something I can do for them? Thanks in advance YTers!

dskeeter1983 · 03-17-2006, 04:31 PM

hey i would call animal control and complain about it that is i am going to do.

Brandy101b · 03-17-2006, 04:35 PM

Unfortunatly there is nothing you can do unless the dogs are being harmed or neglected. Or unless the animals come on your property. basically they won't do anything till the dog has harmed a person or animal. I would put up a privacy fence wood, 6 foot asap!! That would be the safest bet.. Good luck!

lovelilly · 03-17-2006, 04:37 PM

Isn't the barking disturbing the peace? I mean it is 24/7. These are huge dogs that bark at EVERYTHING. It keeps my family up at night and wakes my baby from her nap!

dskeeter1983 · 03-17-2006, 04:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brandy101b

Unfortunatly there is nothing you can do unless the dogs are being harmed or neglected. Or unless the animals come on your property. basically they won't do anything till the dog has harmed a person or animal. I would put up a privacy fence wood, 6 foot asap!! That would be the safest bet.. Good luck!

actually i think you can as a threat to society , if they are out and about not being controled that is a threat to all of us i think the cops will warn them the 1st time , 2cnd time would be a fine and 3rd they would loose the animals that is how it is supposed to work here but never does but i would still try to call some one about it.

minniemn · 03-17-2006, 04:43 PM

Our rotty is very sweet and nice, BUT she does protect her property if she is in her kennel and a stranger comes in the back yard, she will bark and sound mean- she is letting that person know they are in her "packs" territory... but if I let her out of her kennel she will run to the person and lay down to get a belly rub.

Seems like when they are confined they are protective, so chances are these dogs are letting you know that you are by their territory.

BUT... since you and your kids have a fear of them, and you have told your neighbors that you are afraid they should do something- maybe put a privacy fence by their chain link fence so the dogs can't see out.

Also- their continous barking could be considered a noise problem and the police could be called.

I don't agree with keeping the dogs out in such a small place for so long...

I also wanted to say, that I doubt any of my neighbors have seen me take my dogs to the vet- but just because they don't see me doesn't mean I don't (I now own half the place - lol) so I wouldn't jump to the conclusion that they don't go to the vet, just because you don't see them.

Of course my neighbors do see us go for walks, because they all smile when they see us walking our big rotty, and two small yorkies...

oceanair27 · 03-17-2006, 04:55 PM

If you own your house, I would call the place where people get their building permits and check into the privacy fencing. It probably wont solve the barking problem, but at least you could walk outside and not have to see their growling faces and worry they might jump the fence, and the kids will probably feel much better too.

SnowWa · 03-17-2006, 05:02 PM

LoveLilly,

It doesn't seem to me that you need to live that way.

You need to do some homework and check out the laws regarding animals in your area. And, as long as you're at it -- since you're doing it for your own protection and the protection of your animals, check out the laws regarding fences.

I live in Spokane - we at least have an ordinance that forbids people living in the city limits people (and maybe even county) to having only three or four dogs - I'm not sure which. But that's a start!

I think people like your neighbors are "stupid." I mean it. No good person would have animals that offend or bother their neighbors ---to the extent that these are doing. And, unfortunately, when they are contacted, they rarely ever really change the situation.

I, myself, if necessary, would consult a lawyer and pay $100 or so to get his advise. I would certainly have him write a letter to your neighbors stating your and probably other people's concerns -- and mention his and your (and others) intent to do anything and everything legally possibly to improve this situation....including fines, if any are applicable.

You may even elicit the help of other people in your neighborhood - at least have them add their names to your list of complainers.

I just can't believe there aren't laws to stop this type of harrassment.

Years ago - I had barking dogs in my neighborhood (a block or so away) that kept me from going to sleep every night. I often felt like getting up and finding these dogs and letting them all loose -- wouldn't you think they would also be bother their owners all night? They don't seem to, do they?

Well- make a list and do everything you can possibly think of to do. And, do it over and over again.....send a little harrassment back their way! Hopefully, you neighbors will join you.

Good luck! Carol Jean

lovelilly · 03-17-2006, 05:16 PM

I don't blame the dogs at all. I am not usually so afraid of large breed dogs...but they are completely unsocialized. The people only go over their to water and feed. They have a 13 year old son that is always out front on his bike and I have never seen him around the animals. I was hoping that I would be doing the dogs a favor along with my peace of mind.

My husband wants to call them every time the dogs start one of their barking rants and hang up

I told him that doesn't make for very nice neighbors...but I am reaching the point I want to pick up the phone myself

I am going to do some research. I will consider the lawyer thing as well. I just don't want to bother the police. I feel like there are more important things for them to tend to...but then I think about something happening to a child or small animal. Again, I don't blame the animal...it is the owners fault that they are so protective...they are cooped up all the time. My office overlooks their dog run...our houses are pretty close together (about 15 feet apart) and they are always there morning noon and night.

Very, very sad

SnowWa · 03-17-2006, 05:37 PM

I like your husband's idea...... wish all your neighbors would do it - We should have everybody here on YorkieTalk call them...and write them .. and and and and ....!!!!!!

And - don't hesitate to call the police. I have never called them to report anything in my life - but, I think you have a good reason to call them.
Probably, they can't do anything - but they might tell you who you can call.

Carol Jean

lovelilly · 03-17-2006, 05:45 PM

He's creative like that

I think I am going to start with animal control again tomorrow...and my husband is going to write them another letter...just so that we can say we tried resolving it. I am calling the HOA to see about the fence.

Then if nothing else...the police and a lawyer. I pay good money to live in this home and it has become so unenjoyable outside and in. I would never do that to my neighbors.

Wish me luck...thank you so much for your advice!

Connie · 03-17-2006, 08:32 PM

I feel bad for you and your family! You should be able to feel safe in your home or yard! I would be very concerned with big dogs growling at me or Maddie from the other side of the fence. A big yellow lab jumped our fence once and went after Maddie...so, those dogs could jump your fence sometime when the mood hits them. If I were you, I would call the police and complain each time the dogs bark. I know the police have better things to do, but you also have a right to peace and quiet in your home! If the police visit them time and time again, I would guess they would get warnings and after 3 warnings, something would be done! Maybe some of your neighbors could get in on it so you aren't always the ones calling the police. Good luck to you and I hope you can get a very tall, privacy fence so you can enjoy the nice weather ahead!

scrapindee · 03-17-2006, 08:43 PM

U mentioned a HOA. R the neighbors part of the HOA? If they r, u can also file formal complaints against your neighbors and their dogs.

If you call the police and animal control several times a day, several times a week they will be cited as a public nusiance and the dogs might be removed.

Tashasmom · 03-17-2006, 08:55 PM

There are laws (i'm not sure if your town has it) against excessive barking. I hate even saying this and pray to god it doesn't but you need to contact your humane society as well as the police and tell them you feel threatened by the dogs and fear them that way if god forbid something does happen then the it is already on record that the owners have knowingly harbored a dangerous and vicious dog and they will be prosecuted to the fullest for this. YOu might also tell your neighbors that you are planning on contacting an attorney on this matter..that alone may be enough for them to resolve this matter. Or you could even suggest would they consider putting the animals in an enclosed kennel so you would feel safe going in your back yard. I know it doesn't stop the barking but it would keep them from jumping a fence.
I feel for you, your family and pets and the rottis. Good luck.

Pixelate · 03-18-2006, 04:04 PM

If having a frank conversation with the neighbors does not work, I would speak to a lawyer. Perhaps there is something to be done legally re: your neighbors maintaining a public nuisance.

03-17-2006, 04:26 PM	#1
lovelilly Donating YT Addict Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Henderson CO Posts: 640	Afraid of the neighbors dogs!!!!! I am not sure if this should be in this forum, but it has to do with the softly of my babies...so if it needs to be moved please do so. I have some neighbors. I am not a person that likes to cause problems and I hate confrontation...but this is getting to be just to much. When we moved in they had already been here for a year. At that time they had to Rots and one brown lab. The lady told me that the Rots were as sweet as pie. They bark and growl at me all the time...and I disagree. I only have a five foot fence between us...and they will put their head over and growl viciously. It makes me nervous and scares my kids. Well, now that I have the little 12 week puppies...I am a nervous wreak because they look at not only my furbabies as snacks they bark at my kids too. These dogs are kept on the side of the house in a Very small dog run. It is about 3 feet wide and about 15 feet long. They have one large dog house for the three of them. Well, now I find out that they have a small poodle in the house...and they got a new huge dog (looks like the dog from the movie Hootch) and they are in the house. They feed and water the dogs...but nothing else. I am a stay at home mom and I have never seen them put one in the car to take them from a walk or to a vet. They have five dogs in their house most of which weigh over 100lbs. We live in the suburbs. We wrote them a letter about the dogs barking about a year and a half ago. They apologized but did nothing. Now it is just out of control. It would be one thing if they seemed to love these animals. They leave them outdoors even when it is -15 below or 105. When my husband first called animal control they said they could do nothing unless they could see them were not being fed and watered. My husband and I told them we wanted to put up a six foot fence next to theirs because I am afraid. They didn't really respond. I am not sure yet with our HOA if we can. Summer is coming and my family and my dogs are going to want to enjoy our backyard. I don't see that happening in these conditions. Any suggestions? I am not familiar with the law when it comes to animals. Is there something I can do for them? Thanks in advance YTers! __________________ We our yorkie family Tucker, Lilly & Scout! More info on me and my family http://www.myspace.com/99824468

03-17-2006, 04:31 PM	#2
dskeeter1983 YT Addict Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: michigan Posts: 380	i would call hey i would call animal control and complain about it that is i am going to do. __________________ Live , Love , Learn Callie And Tia

03-17-2006, 04:37 PM	#4
lovelilly Donating YT Addict Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Henderson CO Posts: 640	Isn't the barking disturbing the peace? I mean it is 24/7. These are huge dogs that bark at EVERYTHING. It keeps my family up at night and wakes my baby from her nap! __________________ We our yorkie family Tucker, Lilly & Scout! More info on me and my family http://www.myspace.com/99824468

03-17-2006, 05:02 PM	#8
SnowWa YT 2000 Club Member Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: USA Posts: 2,992	LoveLilly, It doesn't seem to me that you need to live that way. You need to do some homework and check out the laws regarding animals in your area. And, as long as you're at it -- since you're doing it for your own protection and the protection of your animals, check out the laws regarding fences. I live in Spokane - we at least have an ordinance that forbids people living in the city limits people (and maybe even county) to having only three or four dogs - I'm not sure which. But that's a start! I think people like your neighbors are "stupid." I mean it. No good person would have animals that offend or bother their neighbors ---to the extent that these are doing. And, unfortunately, when they are contacted, they rarely ever really change the situation. I, myself, if necessary, would consult a lawyer and pay $100 or so to get his advise. I would certainly have him write a letter to your neighbors stating your and probably other people's concerns -- and mention his and your (and others) intent to do anything and everything legally possibly to improve this situation....including fines, if any are applicable. You may even elicit the help of other people in your neighborhood - at least have them add their names to your list of complainers. I just can't believe there aren't laws to stop this type of harrassment. Years ago - I had barking dogs in my neighborhood (a block or so away) that kept me from going to sleep every night. I often felt like getting up and finding these dogs and letting them all loose -- wouldn't you think they would also be bother their owners all night? They don't seem to, do they? Well- make a list and do everything you can possibly think of to do. And, do it over and over again.....send a little harrassment back their way! Hopefully, you neighbors will join you. Good luck! Carol Jean __________________ http://tinypic.com/ipxhmb.jpg A Yorkie is worth a thousand words.

03-17-2006, 05:16 PM	#9
lovelilly Donating YT Addict Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Henderson CO Posts: 640	I don't blame the dogs at all. I am not usually so afraid of large breed dogs...but they are completely unsocialized. The people only go over their to water and feed. They have a 13 year old son that is always out front on his bike and I have never seen him around the animals. I was hoping that I would be doing the dogs a favor along with my peace of mind. My husband wants to call them every time the dogs start one of their barking rants and hang up I told him that doesn't make for very nice neighbors...but I am reaching the point I want to pick up the phone myself I am going to do some research. I will consider the lawyer thing as well. I just don't want to bother the police. I feel like there are more important things for them to tend to...but then I think about something happening to a child or small animal. Again, I don't blame the animal...it is the owners fault that they are so protective...they are cooped up all the time. My office overlooks their dog run...our houses are pretty close together (about 15 feet apart) and they are always there morning noon and night. Very, very sad __________________ We our yorkie family Tucker, Lilly & Scout! More info on me and my family http://www.myspace.com/99824468

03-17-2006, 04:35 PM	#3
Brandy101b Senior Yorkie Talker Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Florida Posts: 108	Unfortunatly there is nothing you can do unless the dogs are being harmed or neglected. Or unless the animals come on your property. basically they won't do anything till the dog has harmed a person or animal. I would put up a privacy fence wood, 6 foot asap!! That would be the safest bet.. Good luck!

03-17-2006, 04:43 PM	#6
minniemn YT Addict Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 364	Our rotty is very sweet and nice, BUT she does protect her property if she is in her kennel and a stranger comes in the back yard, she will bark and sound mean- she is letting that person know they are in her "packs" territory... but if I let her out of her kennel she will run to the person and lay down to get a belly rub. Seems like when they are confined they are protective, so chances are these dogs are letting you know that you are by their territory. BUT... since you and your kids have a fear of them, and you have told your neighbors that you are afraid they should do something- maybe put a privacy fence by their chain link fence so the dogs can't see out. Also- their continous barking could be considered a noise problem and the police could be called. I don't agree with keeping the dogs out in such a small place for so long... I also wanted to say, that I doubt any of my neighbors have seen me take my dogs to the vet- but just because they don't see me doesn't mean I don't (I now own half the place - lol) so I wouldn't jump to the conclusion that they don't go to the vet, just because you don't see them. Of course my neighbors do see us go for walks, because they all smile when they see us walking our big rotty, and two small yorkies...

03-17-2006, 04:55 PM	#7
oceanair27 YT Addict Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Indiana Posts: 271	If you own your house, I would call the place where people get their building permits and check into the privacy fencing. It probably wont solve the barking problem, but at least you could walk outside and not have to see their growling faces and worry they might jump the fence, and the kids will probably feel much better too.

03-17-2006, 05:37 PM	#10
SnowWa YT 2000 Club Member Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: USA Posts: 2,992	I like your husband's idea...... wish all your neighbors would do it - We should have everybody here on YorkieTalk call them...and write them .. and and and and ....!!!!!! And - don't hesitate to call the police. I have never called them to report anything in my life - but, I think you have a good reason to call them. Probably, they can't do anything - but they might tell you who you can call. Carol Jean __________________ http://tinypic.com/ipxhmb.jpg A Yorkie is worth a thousand words.

03-17-2006, 05:45 PM	#11
lovelilly Donating YT Addict Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Henderson CO Posts: 640	He's creative like that I think I am going to start with animal control again tomorrow...and my husband is going to write them another letter...just so that we can say we tried resolving it. I am calling the HOA to see about the fence. Then if nothing else...the police and a lawyer. I pay good money to live in this home and it has become so unenjoyable outside and in. I would never do that to my neighbors. Wish me luck...thank you so much for your advice! __________________ We our yorkie family Tucker, Lilly & Scout! More info on me and my family http://www.myspace.com/99824468

03-17-2006, 08:32 PM	#12
Connie Loved by Maddie & Libby Donating Member Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: North Dakota Posts: 10,732	I feel bad for you and your family! You should be able to feel safe in your home or yard! I would be very concerned with big dogs growling at me or Maddie from the other side of the fence. A big yellow lab jumped our fence once and went after Maddie...so, those dogs could jump your fence sometime when the mood hits them. If I were you, I would call the police and complain each time the dogs bark. I know the police have better things to do, but you also have a right to peace and quiet in your home! If the police visit them time and time again, I would guess they would get warnings and after 3 warnings, something would be done! Maybe some of your neighbors could get in on it so you aren't always the ones calling the police. Good luck to you and I hope you can get a very tall, privacy fence so you can enjoy the nice weather ahead! __________________ Custom doggie dresses and vests Memory is a country where I can go to see your face - but where do I go when I miss your embrace?

03-17-2006, 08:43 PM	#13
scrapindee Donating YT 2000 Club Member Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Redlands Posts: 4,842 Blog Entries: 2	U mentioned a HOA. R the neighbors part of the HOA? If they r, u can also file formal complaints against your neighbors and their dogs. If you call the police and animal control several times a day, several times a week they will be cited as a public nusiance and the dogs might be removed.

03-17-2006, 08:55 PM	#14
Tashasmom YT 500 Club Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Indiana Posts: 950	There are laws (i'm not sure if your town has it) against excessive barking. I hate even saying this and pray to god it doesn't but you need to contact your humane society as well as the police and tell them you feel threatened by the dogs and fear them that way if god forbid something does happen then the it is already on record that the owners have knowingly harbored a dangerous and vicious dog and they will be prosecuted to the fullest for this. YOu might also tell your neighbors that you are planning on contacting an attorney on this matter..that alone may be enough for them to resolve this matter. Or you could even suggest would they consider putting the animals in an enclosed kennel so you would feel safe going in your back yard. I know it doesn't stop the barking but it would keep them from jumping a fence. I feel for you, your family and pets and the rottis. Good luck. __________________ LOVE MEANS MORE THAN JUST HUGS & KISSES!!

03-18-2006, 04:04 PM	#15
Pixelate No Longer a Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: No one's business Posts: 42	If having a frank conversation with the neighbors does not work, I would speak to a lawyer. Perhaps there is something to be done legally re: your neighbors maintaining a public nuisance.