Dog Community

Concerned About a Neighbor's Dog

Posted : 12/24/2010 2:05:46 PM

I'm hoping to get some advice as I have major concerns about a neighbor's dog but am not sure if what's going on constitutes cruelty (by law, anyway). Long story short, this dog spends quite a bit of time outdoors, despite the cold temperatures. Today, for example, he's been out since at least 7am (which is when I walked my two and first noticed he was out.) So we're talking nearly 7 hours at this point. No visible food and/or water and definitely no shelter available to him. Right now he's huddled in a ball in a sunny spot in the yard - I assume trying to keep warm. Temp is currently 31 degrees. This has been an issue for several weeks now, though not consistent. There are days when I don't seem him outside at all and others when he's outside for 12-14 hours. I've checked numerous times and it appears that he is being allowed to sleep indoors at night. I've also interacted several times with him through a fence - very friendly and seems to be well cared for in all other respects (good body weight, coat looks good etc) so he's not starving. For anything other than attention, at least... I've done some research into NJ state animal cruelty laws, but couldn't find specifics (ie what constitutes excessively cold weather by law) So not quite sure what to do at this point. Was going to walk over and talk to them, but my husband is adamant that I do not because he's concerned about a possible confrontation. I also considered putting an anonymous letter in their box expressing my concerns (in a pleasant, but firm way). I also have the number for the county SPCA... Has anyone had experience with this type of situation? Are my concerns valid? Any advice on how best to handle the situation? Thank you in advance for your input! And happy holidays!

Truley

Posted : 12/24/2010 2:18:50 PM

Wecome to the forum.

Are you in one of these counties?

Camden, New Jersey
Lower Township, New Jersey
Ocean City, New Jersey
Sea Isle City, New Jersey
Wildwood, New Jersey
Wildwood Crest, New Jersey

if so go here: http://www.peta.org/issues/companion-animals/current-legislation-on-tethering-dogs.aspx

I did read that they are changing the laws. Until then you do what is best for everyone. Good luck!

DougB

Posted : 12/26/2010 12:50:15 AM

What kind of dog is it? I ask this because some dogs, especially northern breeds, are well able to tolerate cold weather. One I knew had a dog house, but usually could be found sleeping in a near by snow drift. Your best bet would be to call the county animal control and see if any laws are being violated. Thats why they exist.

2DogsMom

Posted : 12/26/2010 5:13:17 PM

He looks like he's got a bit of a couple of different breeds in him, but is predominantly Pit if I had to guess. I've gotten the name of the head animal cruelty investigator for the county and will be in touch with him this week to determine if my concerns are justified. In the meantime, they are keeping him indoors while we contend with blizzard-type conditions. So relieved!!

miranadobe

Posted : 12/27/2010 10:04:34 PM

2DogsMom
In the meantime, they are keeping him indoors while we contend with blizzard-type conditions. So relieved!!

Glad to hear that. In some circumstances, it's better to let the professional get involved since they're trained and paid to deal with such interactions with folks under an investigation. Other times, it's better to be neighborly and try to engage the folks in conversation about their dog. Circumstances are not always what they seem.

Doug, I was wondering the breed question, too - most Huskies I know spend hours upon hours outdoors and beg to be let out in the cold. Plenty of other breeds, too. Lori(Willowchow) was just talking about her Chow who practically begs to be outside in the cold/snow. But since OP thinks this is primarily a pit bull (with short hair, I assume?), then that sounds like a different story.

Glad you're calling the ACO/CI. They will help determine what action needs to be taken to ensure the health and safety of the dog.