DrGMc

Amanda

Been there done that ! Firstly play fair - go around and say politely. "Look its been four weeks now and the noise is too much - if you will not take steps I will have to call the council's dog warden". That way you have informed them of your intentions and its something most councils recomend - next wait say three days (and in this time find the dog warden's telephone number at the council and also visit your neighbours). If nothing changes step up a gear -

Phone the dog warden and let them know the situation - there is a relatively new act regarding environmental pollution (its covers noise and lights too).
At the same time speak to all your neighbours that are affected and ask them to write indiviually to the dog warden to state their issue (ask the dog warden what would be an effective form of words so he/she can act on it) also don't bother with a petition. Most people don't realise that a petition only counts as one compliant - better to have lots of individual letters, far more impact.

Almost finally, be prepared for the long run: We got our neighbours using the council's recording microphone system (they had denied any noise !!!! Cheeky bar stewards) and they had to move their dogs. One year later it has started up again - this time we will be going in hard with three neighbours lined up to really make sure they know they are a pain to the neighbourhood (not just us).

and finally stay calm (I know this sound stupid from where you are right now) but you are in the right - the council have a duty to investigate as this is noise pollution and affects your environment. Most dog wardens work to find a resolution that solves the problem without bringing the neighbours into further conflict - sometimes just the dog warden turning up on there dorr "for a chat" gives people the kick up the pants they need.

Perserve with this route (or the one recomended by the dog warden when you contact them) and you will have it sorted.

Regards, Graham