Barking dogs could hit you in the pocket

Dog owners need to be aware that allowing their dog to bark excessively could see them in court.

That's the message from Rochdale council following a case at Rochdale Magistrates court earlier this month. David McKenna and Cheryl Mizon of Heywood appeared on a charge of contravening an abatement notice arising from the excessive barking of their dog.

Environmental Health Officers had witnessed the dog barking, and served a notice under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. The notice was contravened on a number of occasions. The dog continued to bark and as a result the Environmental Health Service had no option but to prosecute the owners.

Both defendants pleaded guilty to all charges against them.

They were both given a 12 month conditional discharge, and Mr McKenna was ordered to pay £421.68 towards prosecution costs.

Chief Environmental Health and Licensing Officer, Adrian Watson said, "We only use prosecution as a last resort. Our preferred approach is to work with all parties to secure the right outcome. If however, co operation is not offered then we will take the matter to the courts in order to encourage responsible behaviour".