BARKING dogs are being targeted in a new campaign being launched in East Yorkshire.

Noise Action Week starts on Monday, and this year East Riding of Yorkshire Council has chosen to focus on noise from dogs. Excessive noise can be disturbing and annoying to neighbours and can also have a serious impact on neighbourly relations and people’s health.

A council spokesman said dogs may bark for several reasons – boredom, stress or because they have been unwittingly taught to bark by their owners.

The council has powers to serve abatement notices on the owners of dogs which bark for prolonged periods. Failure to comply with notices served under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 can result in a fine of up to £5,000.

Coun Jane Evison, cabinet portfolio holder for rural issues and cultural services, said: “Last year the council investigated more than 400 complaints of disturbance from barking dogs.”

For further information or to register a noise complaint, phone 01482 396301 or visit animalwardens.eastriding.gov.uk