One international survey cited barking dogs as the most stressful source of urban noise. If consistent and noisy barking is bothering you, contact the owners - if they're at work all day they may not even know there is a problem. Then, if necessary, call the animal control unit of your local council. They have responsibility for managing this problem under the Dog Control Act.
They'll send a dog control officer to speak to the dog's owners and suggest ways of stopping the barking. This could be through altering its environment, having someone care for it during the day or other behavioural and environmental modifications.
The council may also issue a "bark abatement notice", requiring the owner to ensure the dog ceases barking or is removed from the property. It's an offence to fail to comply. Offending owners can be fined $1500, and their dogs seized and either sold or put down.
You can ask the dog control officer not to reveal your name or address to the owner, although the council will keep these details on record. If the matter goes to court, your identity will be disclosed because you'll have to give evidence.
For more information about dog owners' rights and responsibilities see our report on Dog law.
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