As a pet owner, it’s important to remember that you share your living space with your neighbours. Being respectful to your neighbours is not only a moral obligation but also a legal one. While you enjoy the company of your fur-baby, your neighbours might not always feel the same way.
The Legislation and Opinion Bureau (LOB) issued a by-law in 2022, with the intention of controling the dog population in the Greater Amman Municipality (GAM).
According to the Jordan Times, it "is now mandatory for every dog owner to obtain a licence" and give a "declaration that the dog does not pose any risk to public safety and will not cause inconvenience or health issues to neighbours".
People who break the rules could face a fine of up to JOD 500. So how can you ensure you keep yourselves and your pets out of trouble?
1. Keep Your Pet Under Control
One of the biggest complaints that neighbours have about pet owners is when their dogs are out of control. Whether it’s barking, running around off-leash, or jumping on people, an out-of-control dog can be a nuisance and a danger to others. As a dog owner, it’s your responsibility to train your dog and ensure that they are well-behaved. Keep your dog on a leash when walking them outside, and make sure they are properly trained before letting them off-leash. This will help prevent any potential conflicts with your neighbours.
It is also important for the safety of your pet. An out-of-control pet can be dangerous to themselves and others. For example, if your dog is running around off-leash in a park, they could potentially run into traffic or get into a fight with another dog. By keeping them on a leash and ensuring they're properly trained, you can prevent these types of incidents from occurring.
Did you know we have certified dog trainers on staff? Contact us!
2. Clean Up After Your Pet
Another common complaint that neighbours have about pet owners is when they don’t clean up after their pets. Whether it’s in the park or on the sidewalk, leaving your pet’s waste behind is not only disrespectful but unsanitary. Always carry a bag with you and pick up after your pet. Not only will this keep the neighourhood clean, it will also prevent the spread of disease.
It is a legal requirement in the Greater Amman Municipality; you can be fined for not picking up after your pet.
We recommend this dispenser that is easily clipped onto your dog's leash.
3. Be Mindful of Your Dog's Noise
Dogs can be noisy and a major source of frustration for your neighbours. Loud and constant noise can be disruptive. If your dog tends to make a lot of noise, try to keep them in a designated area of your home that’s away from your neighbour’s property. If you know that you’re going to be away for an extended period of time, consider taking your dog to a daycare (we think Bark School is the perfect place!) instead of leaving them alone where they may bark excessively.
If you have a dog that tends to make a lot of noise, we recommend investing in training or behavioural therapy to help them become quieter. It is possible that your dog struggles with separation anxiety.
4. Respect Your Neighbour’s Property
As a pet owner, it’s important to respect your neighbour’s property and not allow your pet to damage it. Ensure that your pet stays on the sidewalk and avoid allowing them to dig in gardens. You should also be mindful of any pet-related smells that could linger on your neighbour’s property, such as urine or feces.
Even if your pet is well-behaved, allowing them to roam onto your neighbour's property is an invasion of privacy. If your pet does happen to create any messes on your neighbour's property, make sure to clean it up promptly and thoroughly.
5. Communicate with Your Neighbours
Finally, the best way to be respectful to your neighbours as a pet owner is to communicate with them. Let them know that you’re a responsible pet owner and that you’re taking steps to ensure that your pet doesn’t cause any disruptions. If your neighbour has a complaint, listen openly to their concenrns and, if reasonable, take steps to address them. Open and respectful communication can go a long way in preventing conflicts and maintaininga positive relationship with your neighbours.
In conclusion, being a pet owner comes with a lot of responsibility, including being respectful to your neighbours. By keeping your pet under control, cleaning up after them, being mindful of their noise, respecting your neighbour’s property, and communicating with your neighbours, you can ensure that you’re being a good neighbour and pet owner. Remember, your neighbours have a right to enjoy their living space without being disrupted by your pet. By following these tips, you can create a positive environment for both yourself and your neighbours.
Remember, being a good neighbour is just as important as being a responsible pet owner!
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