It is against the law in York County for animals to become a public nuisance. This includes excessive barking, molesting passersby, chasing vehicles, attacking other domestic animals, damaging property and trespassing on private property.
If animal control officers do not witness these violations, they cannot act upon them. Citizens, however, can take some steps to remedy the problem.
First, talk to the owners of the animal. They may not realize the animal is creating a problem.
Second, if the first step is unsuccessful, contact Animal Control to sign a nuisance complaint form. This will allow an animal control officer to contact the owners of the animal to discuss the problem and, hopefully, correct the situation.
Third, if all else fails, you have the right to swear out a warrant at the local magistrate's office and take the owner to court.
In addition, barking dogs bring almost daily complaints to the York County Animal Shelter, particularly in the warm weather when windows are open. All barking dog complaints are investigated by York County Animal Control officers. Owners of barking dogs may be in violation of the County's noise ordinance. If your dog is barking, please investigate the cause.
If you need additional information or to report a barking dog, call Animal Control at 628-3190.