How to get help....

[sibs]

This year I have become aware of a family who have a large young Mastiff(English), or rather one of the sons has this dog. It has been crying /howling on and off for months. I think it is physically cared for but probably not exercised or socialized as it is kept in a small yard or the garage. I believe the near neighbours have tried to report to the dog warden and RSPCA but no apparent action. I emailed the dog warden to ask if they were acting but no response.

I can't bear this poor animal sounds so distressed. I think the family is actually not horrible but a bit clueless. I took a dog trust mag which had an article on playing games in the summer when I saw the son out once(the only time I saw him out with the dog) and he was struggling to control the dog. I suspect the rest of the family find the size and power of the dog overwhelming and I don't blame them...I would be offering to walk the dog otherwise.

The only other thing I can think of is to take a couple of large kongs round, some article on separation anxiety and some registered dog walking cards.and try to engage
Any suggestions

[sibs]

Just an update. I did drop by and leave some kongs and printouts after bumping into the sister and had a chat with the uncle. The dog seems much quieter even before that and of course I worried even more that they might have got rid. However the uncle was very grateful and did say that the dog was much better. Here is hoping the lad s walking him more.

[lurcherlot]

It's always so worrying when you hear a distressed dog - sadly as long as said dog has shelter and water, it isn't against the law for the dog to be outside
I'm glad there is improvement noise-wise, and just hope the dog is alright.