Pets

This would only be considered antisocial behaviour if the noise is persistent*.

• You may want to have a friendly word with your neighbour as they may not be aware you can hear them. You can download our Dear neighbour card.
• If you still feel you are being disturbed, we suggest you contact the local Environmental Health Officer. Should they take enforcement action, we will use this as evidence against the perpetrator if appropriate.
• If the situation has not improved, mediation might be of help to you. It’s an informal, confidential and independent service available to help neighbours sort out their differences and reach an agreement. They can help you and your neighbour(s) understand each other’s point of view and reach a solution.  Please ask and we will refer you. 
• If the behaviour is persistent (continuous periods lasting over 30 minutes a day for at least 5 days within one week) and you do not feel safe approaching your neighbour, or you have tried and the situation has not improved, once you have contacted the local Environmental Health Officer, please complete our ASB Incident Diary with dates and times of the incidents.

*'Persistent' means continuous periods lasting over 30 minutes a day for at least 5 days within one week.

How to make a report

If you have concerns about the welfare of a pet, you should contact the RSPCA.

If you want to report persistent noise from dog barking, please use our Report ASB form .

If you are reporting other pet behaviour such as dog fouling, please use our Contact Us form 

 

Some dogs can become aggressive and bite other people or animals.

Under the law any dog (of any breed or type) can be considered dangerous in any place if it is not kept under control. The dog doesn’t have to bite anyone; it could just show aggressive behaviour that makes someone feel in fear for their safety.

If you are in fear of your safety, please contact the Police immediately or report the dangerous dog.

Once you have reported it to the Police, please contact us by phone or via our Report ASB form with the incident report number and the officer’s name so we can make contact with them and work with them and agree the next steps with you and the Police.

We would not consider this to be anti-social behaviour.

Cats are as classified as feral animals and their behaviour is not considered to be the responsibility of their owners in the same way as dogs, for example.

Therefore cats roaming in private gardens, fouling or ripping open bin bags is not considered to be anti-social behaviour.

Dog owners can be given an on-the-spot fine if they do not clear up after their dog. The amount varies from council to council. It’s often £50 and can be as much as £80.

Try speaking to your neighbour to make them aware of their responsibility. If you have tried speaking to them or do not feel able to, you can make a report.

• If the offence took place on our land, please complete our Contact Us form. Once we receive your report, we will make contact with your neighbour.

• If the offence took place in a public area such as a pavement or park, please contact the Local Authority who will make contact with your neighbour and possibly issue a fine if you are able to provide them with sufficient evidence.