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It is a violation of law for pet owners who fail to exercise proper care and control of their animals to prevent them from becoming a public nuisance. This includes excessive, continuous, or untimely barking, attacking people or domestic animals, leaving behind waste, chasing vehicles, and trespassing or damaging private property.
The Newport Beach Police Department Animal Control Unit investigates such complaints; however, if the officers do not witness these violations, they cannot act upon them.
For cases where officers have not witnessed the violation, here are some suggestions for actions you can take. First, try to talk to the owners of the animal. They may not realize the animal is creating a problem. If that is unsuccessful and you know the owners’ name and address, send a certified letter to them (return receipt requested) outlining the problem. Pet owners find that medication prescribed by a veterinarian is often an effective problem solver.
In the event you are unable to resolve this problem, you may need to consult a private attorney for legal alternatives.
For further information, call the Animal Control Unit at 644-3717.
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