Neighborly Relations
Written & Submitted by: Julie C. Bond, M.S., Animal Behaviorist
Mrs. Smith is furious with her neighbor, Mr. Jones. According to Mrs. Smith, Mr. Jones is a "dog hater" who has repeatedly harassed her about her beloved dog, Fido.
"All he cares about are his crazy cats--they are always yowling at night
keeping me awake and using my potted plants as litter boxes. My dog is
just being a dog--he's young and playful and would never hurt a fly."
Mrs. Smith is very upset because she has just had a visit from an Animal
Control officer concerning Fido. She has been informed that her dog has been reported as a nuisance and she must correct the problem or risk repeated fines being imposed, and maybe even having to give up Fido. Now, Mr. Jones states that Mrs. Smith is an irresponsible neighbor who is gone all day and doesn't care that Fido barks constantly, digs at their adjoining fence, and is always running around the street loose, pooping on lawns and lifting his leg on prized rose bushes. With regard to her claim that his cats are the real problem, Mr. Jones responds, "Hey--cats are cats. Everybody knows they can't be trained. Besides, cats are supposed to be outside--it would be cruel to keep them indoors all of the time."
I'll bet this situation sounds awfully familiar to many of you. Relationships between neighbors are often strained because of pet problems. Both of these people have valid complaints and both of them have a serious pet problem that needs immediate attention, whether they realize it or not.
Let's start with Fido. It is true that barking and digging are normal canine behaviors. However, it is not appropriate for a dog to bark incessantly or destroy property. Dogs often bark because they are bored. Providing your house bound or yard bound pooch with things to do will keep him happy and out of mischief. This doesn't just mean leaving lots of toys laying around. You need to be creative here. Hide toys or food treats for your dog to find. If your dog likes ice cubes, freeze treats in ice and leave them for him to play with. Rope toys can be soaked in water and frozen for added chewing fun for your dog. There are also many interactive/activity toys out there will occupy your dog's mind while providing physical exercise. Ropes tied to trees and tire swings are fun for a dog to tug on when there is no one else around to play with. Indoors, leaving a radio or TV on will often provide a dog with enough distraction to keep him out of trouble. For really difficult to break barking problems, there are anti-barking collars which deliver a mild shock or citronella spray to discourage incessant barking. These devices are expensive and require training to use properly. They should be used only as a last resort.
Dogs who like to dig need to be provided with an appropriate outlet for this desire. A sand box can be built for your dog or an area of your yard can be designated as the digging spot. Use large rocks, dog feces, or upside down mousetraps to discourage your dog from digging in the inappropriate areas. Bury toys and treats in the area where you want your dog to dig and encourage exploration of this area. Dogs who are digging their way out of the backyard (or jumping the fence) might be better off in a contained dog run or indoors in an airline carrier or crate. Although your dog may be friendly and never wanders out of the neighborhood when he is loose, you still are required by law to keep him confined on your property. Leash laws are enforced for our protection, the protection of property, and the protection of other animals. If you really hate the idea of confining your dog, then perhaps doggy daycare or a petsitter to check on your dog during the day are better options for you.
Now, what about Mr. Jones' outdoor cats? Despite what many cat owners believe, they are responsible for the behavior of their pets. Cats are territorial, but their territories often extend beyond their owners' property. Responsible cat ownership means knowing where your cat is at all times. Cats can be trained to stay in their own yards and keeping cats indoors at night assures their safety and the solitude of the neighborhood for other residents. As with dogs, spaying or neutering your cat will make it less likely to roam and get into fights.
There are many products on the market (some toxic, some not) designed to discourage cats from using your plants as a toilet area. Not all of these products are effective for every individual cat, so you may have to try several to find the one which works for you. In addition, dog feces, large stones, and upside down mousetraps can also be used to discourage cats from using your plants. Tan bark and wood shavings should not be used if you have a cat problem as they are extremely attractive "litter" choices for them.
It is very important to be vigilant about your pet's behavior and how it may affect your neighbors. While it is true that some people just don't like animals and will take any opportunity to register a complaint, most people are at least tolerant of pet owners, as long as they are conscientious of other people's property and sensitivities. If you have a problem, it is best to deal with it quickly and calmly; communication in a non-confrontational manner is key. If a heated debate ensues, enlist the help of an outside mediator. It is much cheaper and less stressful to solve pet-related problems without involving the authorities in your dispute.
Being a good neighbor and a responsible pet owner requires work. Don't let inappropriate pet behavior keep you and your neighbors on opposite sides of the fence!