Dog Walker Won't Stop Dogs From Peeing In Neighbor's Bushes
Dogs love peeing in the same spot. Sometimes, this could be a problem if it is not an acceptable spot. Important-Lecture-99 on Reddit took the AITA subreddit to ask whether she was doing something wrong by allowing her client's dog to pee in a neighbour's bush.
Important-Lecture-99 is a dog walker who walks Benito and Luna thrice a week. While passing the neighbour's sidewalk, the dogs often pee in the bushes in front of the house.
The neighbour has complained about the act, saying that dog pee kills plants. Important-Lecture-99 said she politely explained to the neighbour that she often prevents the dogs from peeing in the garage doors or the cars but stopping them from peeing in bushes is a bit too much.
The neighbour wasn't having it and started questioning why she takes that route instead of another one. Important-Lecture-99 explained that she takes the route because Luna doesn't get along well with other dogs, and seeing so many dogs down the street would be stressful for both of them.
Recently, Important-Lecture-99 was walking the dogs as usual, and when they got to the bushes, the dogs started peeing. This time around, the neighbour was outside with some people, and she became infuriated, saying she had warned Important-Lecture-99 to stop the dogs from peeing there.
Although the neighbour tried to get Important-Lecture-99 to reveal who owned the dogs, she refused to give up the information. Important-Lecture-99 said the dogs have been taking that route for over three years, and they like it.
However, she wants to know if she's wrong for allowing them to pee in the bushes. Members of the AITA subreddit had the following to say concerning the matter.
Here's her post.
1. She should take the dogs elsewhere since the neighbour has issues with them.
2. She should respect the neighbour's wishes and stop the dogs from peeing there.
Understanding Social Norms
Dr. Alan Smith, a social psychologist at Stanford, explains that social norms greatly influence our behavior in public spaces. The expectation for dog owners to control their pets often stems from a desire to maintain community standards and respect shared spaces.
According to research in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, violations of these norms can lead to social disapproval and conflict among neighbors.
3. There are dog parks for a reason. She should take the dogs there or find somewhere appropriate for them to pee.
4. Her neighbour has every right to decide whether she wants the dogs to pee there or not since it's her property.
5. It's wrong for dogs to pee on someone else's property.
The dog's behavior may reflect a lack of training or understanding from the owner, suggesting a gap in the owner's responsibility. Research shows that consistent training and positive reinforcement are crucial for shaping desirable behaviors in pets, as noted in studies by animal behaviorists.
Moreover, this situation highlights the importance of communication between neighbors, which can often prevent misunderstandings and foster a sense of community.
6. As a dog walker she's supposed to know that allowing the dogs to pee there will attract more dogs there.
7. If she wouldn't pay for the upkeep of the bushes, she shouldn't allow the dogs to go near them.
8. The dogs are killing the bushes.
Community Responsibility and Shared Spaces
From a community psychology perspective, shared spaces require cooperation and mutual respect among residents. Dr. Jennifer Roberts, a community psychologist, emphasizes that fostering good neighborly relations often hinges on understanding the impact of individual behaviors on the collective environment.
Research supports the idea that proactive communication can mitigate potential conflicts and enhance communal living experiences.
9. Not only is dog feces harmful to bushes, but also they can cause kids to fall ill.
10. The neighbour might be one of those unhappy old ladies.
11. Dogs are free to pee in public.
Practical solutions for the dog walker could include establishing a routine for exercising the dogs in designated areas, away from neighbors’ properties. This approach not only respects neighbors' spaces but also promotes positive dog behavior through structured activities.
Additionally, engaging in dialogue with the neighbors about pet policies can help align expectations and create a more harmonious community.
12. She should respect the neighbour's wishes.
13. She should learn to control the dogs.
14. Dog pee can only ruin grass if dogs pee in the same spot all the time.
15. Sometimes, you should let things slide for peace to reign.
16. If dog pee kills grass, where should dogs pee?
17. It's bad that she's letting the dogs pee next to the neighbour's house.
18. There's a chance other dogs are using the same spot.
19. The neighbour's wishes are superior here.
What Would You Do?
Dogs are territorial animals, and they use a variety of marking techniques, including urination, to communicate to other people and animals that their territory is theirs.
Urination marking is another way dogs inform each other that they visited a particular location. However, it is not a valid excuse to allow one's dog to trespass on another person's property.
Expert Opinion
This situation illustrates the common tension between personal pet ownership and community expectations. The dog walker’s reluctance to intervene could reflect a misunderstanding of her role in maintaining community standards and respecting shared spaces.
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
Understanding the interplay between individual actions and community norms is vital for harmonious living. Research supports the idea that proactive communication and responsibility can significantly enhance neighborly relations. By fostering understanding and cooperation, individuals can contribute to a positive community atmosphere.
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