Dogs drive neighbours barking mad

The council received 132 complaints about barking dogs last year

Barking dogs are the biggest cause of noise nuisance in Clackmannanshire, according to new figures.

Over 130 complaints were made in 2007, making up 90% of the total received.

The issue has prompted the local authority to offer a list of practical tips for dog owners on how to avoid having a problem pet.

The figures are published ahead of the start of Noise Action Week on Monday, which aims to raise awareness of noise pollution and its impact on daily life.

The council said it wanted to promote practical solutions to everyday noise problems and educate noise makers and noise sufferers.

'Formal proceedings'

While many of the 132 complaints about dogs were resolved amicably, some complaints had to be formally investigated.

The council's environmental health officer Lynn Crothers said: "In some of the complaints we've received people have stated that they have had to move to other parts of their house to get away from the noise and in some extreme cases people have even considered moving house altogether because they cannot tolerate the noise any longer.

"By law, a barking dog can be a noise nuisance and environmental health officers can take legal action against constant barking.

"However, it is hoped that officers can reduce the number of people affected by dog barking through advice and awareness-raising rather than formal proceedings."

One of the solutions the council suggests to reduce barking is to leave a radio on at low volume if a dog is to be left alone in a property for long periods of time.

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