A national pets and people survey released in 2025 estimated Australia’s pet population at 31.6 million, with 7.7 million households sharing their lives with a pet. This equates to an estimated 73% of households caring for a pet, with the data also indicating that pet ownership is on the rise.Â
As pets increasingly become part of Australian neighbourhoods, it’s only natural that they’re becoming a bigger part of the everyday sounds of a thriving community. However, we understand that living with or near people who have pets can sometimes be challenging. This page offers advice about navigating these challenges with compassion and kindness.
In fact, RSPCA NSW receives over 1,500 calls per year relating to noise concerns from members of the public with a portion of those calls also from owners reaching out for assistance. Â
Importantly, excessive barking may be a sign that the animal could be bored, stressed, or in need of having their welfare needs met. When this occurs, it’s important to approach the situation with kindness and compassion.
If it’s safe to do so, consider having a friendly conversation with any neighbours struggling to keep their dogs from barking excessively. Pet guardians may be unaware that their dogs are barking while they’re away. Alternatively, they may be experiencing circumstances (such as illness or injury) that may be momentarily hindering their ability to care for their pet.
It’s important to start with an open conversation. Approaching scenarios like these with empathy, rather than judgement and blame, can create a positive outcome for everyone involved.
Pets are valued family members and RSPCA NSW’s approach is always to support and educate, helping families overcome challenges and stay together wherever possible.Â
If you’re caring for dogs and puppies and are experiencing difficulty with noise or other behaviours, know that you aren’t alone and that there is support available. RSPCA NSW is here to provide you with a helping hand. Â
Depending on the situation, we can guide you through practical information and resources to help address common concerns, or in some cases, get you to speak to one of our behavioural veterinarians who can provide reassurance, tailored advice, and a clear path forward. Â
To speak with (or book an appointment with) one of our behavioural veterinarians, please contact your nearest RSPCA NSW Veterinary Hospital.
RSPCA NSW rehomes a range of different animals, from dogs, cats, and birds to horses, rabbits, and sheep! We believe that all creatures, great and small, can bring joy to our families and homes. Begin your adoption journey today and make an adorable lifelong friend!
By providing temporary homes for our animals, we can ensure they get the care they need until they are ready to be adopted. Join our network of foster carers for an incredibly rewarding experience; with your help, we can change the lives of some of the state’s most vulnerable animals.
We rely on our generous supporters to continue assisting the thousands of animals turning to RSPCA NSW for help. No matter how small your contribution, every gift makes a lifesaving difference for animals in need.
By raising funds and lending a hand to communities and their pets, our volunteers play a pivotal role in our work throughout NSW. If you have a genuine concern for animals and enjoy meeting like-minded people, consider becoming an RSPCA NSW volunteer today!
