Buzz
Animal waste not only mars your neighborhood's cleanliness but also poses health risks. Consequently, most municipalities mandate that dog owners clean up any waste left by their pets. Additionally, many cities require homeowners to promptly address waste issues on their property, regardless of its origin. To file a complaint regarding waste, locate the appropriate department by consulting your phone book or conducting an online search.
Procedures
Initiating the Waste Grievance
Identify the relevant department. Most cities have dedicated animal control offices responsible for addressing animal-related grievances. In some areas, these complaints may be handled by animal shelters. To locate the appropriate department, consult your phone book under “animal control.”
- You can also utilize online resources. Enter “animal waste complaint” along with your city's name into a search engine. The relevant department should appear in your search results.
- Upon identifying the correct department, make note of the contact number for future reference.
Compile pertinent information. Before reaching out, gather all relevant details to provide to animal control. This may include:
- a description of the animal
- the animal’s location
- the time when the incident occurred
- any other pertinent information
Determine if you prefer to report anonymously. Some cities offer the option to make anonymous reports. This might be desirable if you fear the animal owner or wish to avoid involvement in potential disputes.
- However, reporting anonymously could hinder animal control’s ability to take action. Proper enforcement against the animal owner might necessitate a hearing where evidence is presented. If you opt for anonymity, you may not be willing to testify, which could impede the process.
Consider filing your report online. Certain cities provide online forms for submitting animal waste complaints. For instance, New York City offers an online complaint filing option.
Arrange a meeting with an animal control inspector. Following your complaint, animal control should contact the animal’s owner, and an inspector may arrange a meeting. Offer assistance to animal control in any way possible.
- For instance, provide the inspector with any relevant documentation regarding the waste issue.
Submit a follow-up complaint if necessary. Should the owner fail to address the issue after initial contact from animal control, you may need to file a second complaint. In some cities, like Fort Worth, this may involve completing an affidavit, which should include:
- the name (or description) of the animal’s owner
- the owner’s address
- a description of the animals
- the date and time of the incident
- any additional relevant details
- the names and contact information of other witnesses
- your signature, notarized
Recording the Waste Incident
Capture photographs of the animal during the waste deposition. Unless animal control directly witnesses the incident, issuing a citation is typically challenging. However, citations can be issued if you possess:
- a colored photograph showing the animal depositing waste
- the animal clearly visible in the image
- detailed documentation of the incident's date, location, and time
Opt for video documentation instead. Creating a video may be more convenient than taking photos. Most smartphones are equipped to record short videos. Ensure both the animal and its owner are visible in the footage to facilitate identification.
Secure eyewitnesses. In certain jurisdictions, animal control may require multiple complainants, particularly if no photographic evidence is available. Endeavor to gather at least two witnesses.
- Engage with neighbors who may have observed the animal owner neglecting to clean up after their pet.
- Record the witness’s name and contact details, including phone number and email address. Inquire if the witness is willing to provide testimony.
Providing Testimony in Legal Proceedings
Receive notification to appear at a hearing for testimony. In cases where the animal's owner is uncooperative, animal control may issue a citation. However, the owner can contest the citation at a hearing, during which you may be called upon to testify.
- Take note of the hearing's date and location. If you're unfamiliar with the courthouse, ensure you allocate sufficient time to arrive punctually on the day of the hearing.
Choose appropriate attire. It's crucial to present yourself as a credible witness to the presiding judge. Thus, opt for attire that exudes professionalism. Courts adhere to conservative standards, so dress accordingly.
- While a suit may not be necessary for an animal waste hearing, attire should lean towards 'business casual' with dress pants and a shirt. Avoid sneakers and ostentatious jewelry.
- Maintain a neat and tidy appearance, including groomed hair and cleanliness.
Provide testimony during the hearing. If you're unfamiliar with testifying, nerves may arise. However, maintaining credibility is key. Follow these guidelines:
- Listen attentively to questions and request clarification if needed.
- Take a moment to gather your thoughts before responding.
- Keep responses concise, focusing on providing evidence rather than passing judgment on the owner.
- Avoid injecting humor into proceedings, as courtrooms demand a serious demeanor.
