Protection from a neighbor

[legalbattles]

What is the name of your state? PA

I have just moved into a condominium complex that has a liberal pet policy as long as neighbors don't complain about the pet's behavior. I brought my dog with me and immediately noticed "dirty looks" from my next door neighbor. Before I even determined that it had to do with my dog I found out that this person is indeed an animal hater, "just because" and she made another person get rid of their dog (akita) because she "thought" her life was in danger when the dog was in the window.

I cannot believe how this condominioum association just decided that it was enough of a claim to make the owner get rid of his dog, when I heard the story I was ourtraged. I will never give up my beautiful golden retriever. Over my dead body!

However I sense I will be placed in a similar situation soon as I am getting warning signs already (her dirty looks etc.).

The other day the animal hater neighbor accused me of standing too close to her window and only then I realized that she is indeed crazy and on some heavy medication. So,

Would it be wise of me to get either a restraining order against her or a protection order even (what is the true difference?) just in case she decides to go after my dog with her claims in order to get rid of him. I can just picture her saying something to the extend that my dog's barking is bothering her or something similar to that. How would this action on my part make her claim less valid (I mean, dear Judge she is emotionally unstable accusing me of weird things). How would it impact things in general?

Any advice aside from that?

 

[stephenk]

sorry, but restraining orders are for people needing protection from actual threats and danger. you cant get a RO on a belief she might complain about your dog in the future when there is no history of this person making any physical threat or action against you or your dog.

 

[April2002]

By the sounds of this woman, the last thing I would want to do is get her mad. Sometimes it works better if your very nice to these types of people. Smile at them whenever you see them, say good morning to them or ask them how their doing. You don't have to become friends, I wouldn't ever invite her into your home, but being a friendly person sometimes takes the sting out of a nasty person. If she mentions your dog, I would take a few minutes and talk to her in a very upbeat manner and tell her all about the dog, how sweet he/she is, maybe tell her something about the breed and how well liked this type of breed is. If you go against this woman from the start, it will give her an excuse to go after you and make your life miserable. Don't give her that option. Most people find it hard to be mean to someone that's nice to them. Hopefully, for your sake, she falls into this category