Barking Dogs
If you're having problems with barking dogs near your residence, you can call 311 or submit a noise complaint through the CABQ website. In either case, a letter will be sent to the owner of the barking dog(s) given them seven days to resolve the problem.
If the noise continues after seven days, call 311 or fill out a subsequent form and an Animal Control Officer will be dispatched to investigate.
If the officer witnesses the noise violation, a citation or criminal complaint can be issued based on their observations.
If the officer does not witness the niose violation, you must be prepared to participate if you want the case to move forward. The officer will need a written log or a statement with dates and times of disturbances. They will also want to know if you are willing to file criminal charges against your neighbor and whether you have exhausted all means of dealing with the problem, such as talking with your neighbor or contacting the city's Alternative Dispute Resolution office for help through a mediation process.
If there is sufficient evidence, charges may be filed and you might be needed to testify in a criminal trial. It is not a quick process. It can be several months before a trial date is even set.
If the officer does not find enough evidence, the investigation will be closed. You then might have to consider filing a civil suit against the neighbor.
Community Mediation
The Albuqureque Community Mediation program is a dispute resolution process designed to help neighbors in Albuquerque resolve problems.
Mediators are impartial third parties. They are trained at reducing hostility between neighbors and helping neighbors look at problems in a new way and discuss potential solutions. Mediators do not blame, decide who is right or wrong, or make decisions about what should happen. You are responsible for the outcome.
Mediation sessions are provided at no charge, are scheduled in locations convenient to your neighborhood, and can take place during the day or evening depending on the schedules of the people involved
Documentation of the Mediation Process can be a crucial part of a complaint. These records can be used as legal documents in a criminal prosecution.
To begin the mediation process, contact the Alternative Dispute Resolution office at (505) 768-4712.
How to Keep Your Dog(s) Happy
If your dogs are prone to barking and you're concerned they might be bothering neighbors, here are some tips for you to consider:
Develop a Walking Routine
Provide your dog with mental and physical stimulation so the animal is calmer in general and less likely to seek objectionable activities. Walking also allows the pet a chance for social interaction.
Rain on His Parade
To remind your dog that him noise is not appreciated, give him a short blast of water with a squirt bottle. It's best to aim for the body and not the face. When the dog stops noise, praise it immediately.
Use a Chew Toy
Your animal will have a hard time making noise if his mouth is busy chewing. Chewing is a natural stress release for animals and an occupier of time. If you're going to be gone, give your animal a favorite chew toy just before you leave. Certain toys allow for the addition of peanut butter, possibly making them more desirable to your dog.
Fill a Soda Can With Pebbles
Shaking a soda can filled with pebbles has an effect on both dogs and cats that is the pet equivalent of running your fingernails down a blackboard. Put some pebbles or small coins in an empty soda can and tape the opening shut. If the noisy animal doesn't respond to the command to be quiet, shake the can a couple of times. Your pet won't like the sound, and might stop what it is doing when the sound occurs. When your pet stops making noise, praise the pet immediately.
Bring Your Dog(s) Inside
If your animal sleeps outside and simply won't stay quiet throughout the night, it might be best to bring the pet indoors.
Block the Stimulus With White Noise
If your animal is particularly sensitive to noises, try blocking some of that noise to discourage barking. Turn on the vacuum cleaner to block the approaching steps of a mail carrier, or children walking home from school. Playing your stereo might help.
Get a Special Collar
An animal trainer might recommend a no-noise collar, which delivers a squirt of citronella, a high frequency sound, or a light shock when your animal makes noise. Some collars go off immediately, while others allow the animal to make noise a few times before being activated. Be very selective. An animal training expert can help you choose the right size for your pet. Some collars can be extremely useful, but you need to work with someone who can help you get a good collar and training. Pet supply stores and trainers offer these specialized collars.
Recognize When to Change Strategies
It can be hard to know when to quit using a particular approach. If you don't notice an improvement with your dog(s) within three to five days, try a different technique.
City Resources
Online Animal Noise Complaint
Fill out an Animal Noise Complaint Form.
HEART Ordinance
Read the Humane and Ethical Animal Rules and Treatment ordinance.
Animal Welfare
Animal Welfare Department site
8920 Lomas NE
Albuquerque NM 87112
(505) 768-2000
Or call 311