Vetnews | Januarie 2025 36 « BACK TO CONTENTS Veterinarians are usually sought out for their expertise in animal health, but sometimes, the challenges clients bring extend beyond their own pets. A common yet complex issue is dealing with a neighbour’s excessively barking dog. This can disrupt lives, strain community ties, and escalate into legal battles. It may even lead to physical violence among neighbours. As a trusted advisor, veterinarians are wellpositioned to offer guidance that not only addresses the animal’s welfare but also helps resolve conflicts constructively and within the framework of the law. Understanding the Client’s Perspective Begin by empathizing with your client. Persistent barking can severely impact mental health, causing sleep deprivation and chronic stress. Listen to your client’s concerns and demonstrate understanding. Assure them that solutions are available, and their frustration is valid. Root Causes of Excessive Barking Explain to your clients that excessive barking is often symptomatic of underlying issues such as boredom or frustration, separation anxiety, and external environmental stimuli. Encourage your client to consider these factors and how they might affect the dog in question. Having dealt with desperate clients from all over the country, separation anxiety is the most common root cause of chronic barking. It is usually not appreciated or understood by the owners of the dogs in question. Practical Steps to Advise Clients 1. Build Bridges, Not Walls Advise your client to approach their neighbour respectfully and diplomatically. Open communication is key. Encourage them to express concern for the dog’s well-being while explaining how the barking affects them. If the history suggests that separation anxiety may be at the root of the problem, provide your client with information that the client can give to the neighbour. 2. Offer Constructive Solutions Suggest your client propose solutions to the neighbour, such as: o Hiring a professional animal behaviourist to assess and address the problem. o Exploring dog-sitting or walking services to provide enrichment. o Recommending environmental adjustments like soundproofing or calming aids. Legal Mews WHEN CLIENTS SEEK YOUR HELP WITH BARKING DOGS: A VETERINARIAN’S LEGAL GUIDE Trudie Prinsloo (Legalvet Services) This article is intended to provide information and educate veterinarians on relevant aspects of the law. It is not intended as personal legal advice. SAVA is not responsible or liable for any advice or other information provided herein.
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