Question:
I am rarely out of my house, but sometimes when I go out my dogs bark, which I control as best I can following your advice of drawing the curtains and leaving the TV set on. Now some neighbors are complaining and say it's illegal. Their screaming kids are much more of a nuisance and often upset my dogs, but there is no law against that. Please advise.
No name given, Naples, FL Oct 16, 2005
Answer:
The "double standard" that you allude to is an issue that in other cultures is less problematic because children are parented differently. Loud screaming is gently, firmly and consistently controlled, and is not regarded as cute, high-spirited or socially acceptable. Take your dogs with you when you can, and add a radio to the "noise barrier" of the television when you are out, with the volume up high so that the sound is audible outdoors but not too loud as to cause further complaints. Fill some marrow bones or rubber Kong toys with peanut butter to occupy your dogs, and bring in a dog house-sitter and walker when you must leave them for any extended period of time.
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