How about the barking dogs? 20-40-60 answers

Parties Extra!…20-40-60 Question…received by e-mail from an Oklahoman and NewsOk reader.

YOU ASK…WE ANSWER…YOU DECIDE

Question: Our neighbor of 10 years recently got two feisty dogs. His dogs bark every time we go in our fenced backyard or when he walks them real early in the morning, sometimes as early as 5:30 a.m. I have complained to them.  The answer is:  “Sorry.”  How do I write a polite letter to complain?

Callie’s Answer: Dogs that bark are usually bored, maybe as a gift, you could give the dogs some bones or chew toys to keep the dogs from barking. This way you don’t have to actually say something, AGAIN.

If this doesn’t work,  google “dog barking” there is a system that you can buy (it is kind of expensive) but it is a high- pitched noise that only dogs can hear. This will teach the dogs  not to bark, and there is no awkwardness between your neighbor.

The device goes as far as 300 feet away! GOOD LUCK!

Lillie-Beth’s Answer: That sounds awful! I don’t have a dog and don’t know how you keep a dog from barking.

I think I’d approach a letter with the idea of “how can we solve this problem together or work out a solution that works for both of us?” Make it clear you like them as neighbors and even the dogs, if that’s how you feel, but tell them just as clearly that you’re having serious trouble coping with the dogs’ barking.

Spell out why, in case they can’t see it from your point of view. Also, are there certain times of the day when you really can’t stand it? If so, maybe you can suggest to them they bring the dogs inside at those times. The less confrontational at first, the better, especially if you find a good compromise.

Here’s one idea I would NOT suggest (at least not right away), although it’s interesting: the New York Times recently reported on a long-time surgical procedure involving cutting dogs vocal cords, called “debarking.” Apparently it is an option for dog owners faced with the choice of getting rid of their dogs or keeping them quiet, such as in an apartment building, although many are now debating the ethics of debarking.