Federal Way’s animal services unit responds to animal complaints, but it also strives to prevent complaints.
In February, the city decided to part ways with King County Animal Care and Control. The agency was facing restructuring. Federal Way thought it could offer residents a higher level of service if it began its own animal unit.
In July, the city launched its animal services program. The program is ran out of the police department. Responding to residents’ complaints about animals is important, but so is trying to prevent complaints and relieve discomforts. Each month, the unit issues a public education release via the city’s online e-subscribe system. Topics are based off of concerns seen locally.
“These are issues that our citizens have brought to our attention,” animal services coordinator Kelly Crouch said.
This month, barking dogs are the topic of conversation. According to Federal Way’s revised code 9.15.080, “An animal which howls, yelps, whines, barks or makes other oral noises, in such a manner as to disturb any person or neighborhood to an unreasonable degree, is a public nuisance.” The owners of barking dogs can receive a civil infraction. These cost $100, $200 or $300, depending on the number of previous citations that have been issued for the same offense.
There are ways to address a dog that has taken to barking frequently. Here are 14 tips, courtesy of Federal Way’s animal services unit.
1. Spay or neuter the dog. Altered dogs tend to be quieter than non-altered dogs.
2. Invest in obedience classes. Dogs that learn commands can be quieted more effectively.
3. Exercise the dog. Nuisance barkers often have pent up energy that exercise can help release.
4. Include the dog in family events. Dogs are social animals and can become frustrated at being excluded or left alone.
5. Visit the veterinarian. Excessive barking could be a sign of illness, pain or parasites.
6. Remember the toys. Safe playthings, such as hard rubber dog toys, can entertain dogs for long periods of time.
7. Consider a pet sitter. A pet sitter may be able to give the dog the attention and exercise it needs while its owner is away.
8. Take the dog along on errands. Again, dogs like to be included in activities. Remember to leave them at home though if the weather is too warm.
9. Take caution with multiple dogs. One barking dog can encourage others to join in. Put dogs outside one at a time to decrease the chance of barking.
10. Invest in quality dog food. Low quality dog food sometimes has added sugars, preservatives and colors than can make a dog hyperactive.
11. Consider a dog behaviorist or trainer. Like humans, dogs can have severe emotional issue.
12. Keep the dog inside at night. Night brings nocturnal animals that can cause dogs to bark.
13. Block visual stimulation. Build a solid fence or enclose the dog in a
part of the yard away from visual triggers.
14. Don’t rule out an anti-bark collar. An additional solution may be a quality anti-bark collar. Consult with a trainer to see which is the appropriate choice for the dog. Training with the collar is essential for it to be humane and effective.
Next month, the unit will offer tips about feral cats.
The monthly tip page is a way to help pet owners be responsible and keep their pets healthy and happy.
“It not only helps create better communication between the police department, animal services and the public, but it also helps those that want to be responsible pet owners but don’t have the resources,” Crouch said.
Learn more:
• Visit the city’s website, www.cityoffederalway.com, and click on the “E-Services and Documents” tab to learn more about enrolling in the city’s e-subscribe bulletin.
• Call (253) 835-PETS for information about animal licensing, nuisance issues, hours of operation or to learn more about Federal Way’s animal services.
• Visit www.cityoffederalway.com/Page.aspx?view=925 to learn more about adopting a pet, pet licensing, lost and found pets, reporting complaints, sheltering pets or volunteer opportunities with the unit.
