PET OHANA
Neighbor’s barking dogs a nuisance
Hawaiian Humane Society
Question: Our neighbors have at least five dogs, and they bark at all hours. Is there a limit to the number of dogs one household can have?
Answer: If you live on Oahu in an area primarily occupied by private residences, no more than 10 dogs, age 4 months or older, are allowed.
Q: What can I do about the noise?
A: A dog owner whose canine is barking intermittently for 30 minutes or constantly for 10 minutes to the disturbance of others is in violation of the City & County of Honolulu's animal nuisance law.
To file a barking-dog complaint, call the Hawaiian Humane Society at 356-2280. A letter will be sent to the owner, stating that a complaint has been made and enclosing educational materials on why dogs bark and measures to alleviate the barking.
Pet owners are given about two weeks to review the material and implement training.
If a second complaint is made, a Humane Society investigator will meet with the dog owner and try to resolve the problem. Further complaints can result in fines of up to $1,000.
Q: Do I have to give my name in a complaint?
A: The Humane Society will not respond to anonymous complaints, but we do not reveal the identity of the complainant to the dog owner.
Q: What can pet owners do about barking?
A: Exercise might be the remedy, as it's a way to release tension. A tired dog will rarely bark.
Teach your dog to respond to "no -- quiet" when he begins to bark, and reward him with praise and a treat when he responds well. If your dog is home alone, keep him indoors and turn on the radio to comfort him. Chew toys or "treat-holding" toys should be available while you are away.
Or try a citronella collar, which dispenses a spritz of citronella scent when the animal barks. Dogs dislike the smell and it interrupts barking. Collars can be purchased or can be loaned for two weeks through the Humane Society.
We do not recommend electric shock collars, which attempt to reduce barking by inflicting pain. Shock collars could increase anxiety and aggression, making the problem worse.
The Hawaiian Humane Society welcomes questions by e-mail,
hhs@hawaiianhumane.org. Indicate "Pet Ohana" in the subject line. Or, write "Pet Ohana," Hawaiian Humane Society, 2700 Waialae Ave., Honolulu 96826.