Council seizes barking dogs for causing nuisance to neighbours (From Warrington Guardian)

Council seizes barking dogs for causing nuisance to neighbours

A PAIR of dogs have been taken away from their owners - for being too noisy.

Environmental health officers from Warrington Borough Council seized the two Alsatians from their home in Great Sankey last week.

The action followed a series of complaints about the barking animals from people living in the area.

Clr Mike Hannon, the borough council's executive member for community and well being, said: "The seizing of these dogs demonstrates the council's commitment to dealing with anti-social behaviour and providing peaceful environments throughout our communities."

A legal notice was served on the dogs' owners in October and further warnings were given, but the barking continued.

Last Monday, Warrington Magistrates' Court granted a warrant that allowed council officers to enter the home of the owners, and the dogs were seized on the same day and taken to council kennels.

If the owner agrees to prevent the dogs being a nuisance, and pays the kennelling fees, the animals will be returned.

Phil Woods, the borough council's environmental protection and waste manager, said that people who allow animals to create noise pollution would be punished.

He said: "We support responsible dog ownership but we will take action to deal with unacceptable levels of noise."

The borough council has the power to prosecute the owners of the dogs, but no action has yet been taken.