Dog Community

Call Humane Society or mind my bees-wax?

Posted : 2/2/2010 11:46:20 AM

Hi everyone, I need to bounce something off of you. I moved into a new home a week ago and am disturbed by my neighbor who is hiding so much garbage on the side of their house in the back yard where their two big dogs sleep and hang out. They do have a rather big back yard where the dogs can go but the dogs choose to lay on a mattress amidst the garbage and have fun ripping it a part so while it's awful by my standards, it's certainly not a hazard for the dogs. I noticed today however, that the dogs bowl is empty. Granted it's not like I am looking out my window for hours on end in their back yard so it's possible that they are emptying it. I am peeved that there is so much garbage back there and if the HOA knew, they'd be cited. I keep my window closed and pretend like it's not there but I can't help being reminded because of the dog's barking and ripping at the gate. They have ruined the gate trying to get out. This isn't right on several levels.

Should I just turn my head or call the Humane Society and let them decide. I don't want to cause any trouble and my personality type (shy) is to not do anything but my gut feels sad for the dogs. I don't see any real danger but I "perceive" neglect. TIA

Spazzy

Posted : 2/2/2010 3:49:10 PM

I would call if I were you.

If I ever feel a dog is not being cared for or abused, then I would not hesitate to call AC or rescue.

DougB

Posted : 2/2/2010 5:06:20 PM

Try the HOA first. It is your business, and unless you like the sight of vermin running around, you want the trash gone. It may not be a neglect case. My dog has several water sources ( including the porcelain throne ) and if one is empty, there are usually at least two more she can get at.

Sunshinegirl

Posted : 2/3/2010 12:34:34 AM

I agree with contacting the HOA, even anonymously, first and see what happens. They're usually pretty good about sending a letter to the homeowner and following up. They can usually fine them if they don't follow the rules. If that doesn't work, then call animal services. I would hate to see that happening every day! And if you can get pics - even better..

spiritdogs

Posted : 2/3/2010 8:00:10 AM

Consider that the dogs' human may be having difficulties that they need help with as well (mental illness, frailty, hoarding, illness, dead?) and do call HOA. If the person is an elder, and you are in the USA, you can also elect to call your local Area Agency on Aging (they help with cases of self neglect or elders who cannot afford a clean up).

Irondoll

Posted : 2/22/2010 1:59:46 PM

Just a quick thank you and an update. You all are terrific for giving me your take on the situation so thank you for letting me pick your brain.

I did nothing and low-and-behold, one morning the trash was hauled away. The dogs stopped going to the gate and ripping it to shreds too so the trash was somehow attracting the dogs so I'm glad it's taken care of. The neighbors are filling a large bucket for the dogs to drink so at least they aren't neglecting them that way. I suppose it's none of my business that they just leave them in the back yard all day without walking or playing so I'll butt out.

Thanks!