Joseph Garcia Oviedo

Dear Committee: I am writing to express my strong opposition to HB 1133 regarding livestock guardian dogs and the proposed restriction limiting barking to no more than 10 minutes per night unless an owner can prove a predator was present. As a livestock owner in New Hampshire, I rely on livestock guardian dogs as an essential part of protecting my animals. These dogs are not pets in the traditional sense — they are working animals bred and trained specifically to deter predators through their presence and, importantly, their barking. Barking is not a nuisance behavior in this context; it is their primary and most effective deterrent tool. Requiring that barking be limited to 10 minutes per night is unrealistic and does not reflect how guardian dogs function. Predators such as coyotes, foxes, bears, and other wildlife often patrol intermittently throughout the night. A guardian dog may bark multiple times to discourage movement near a pasture or barn without a direct predator encounter that can be “proven.” The expectation that an owner must prove a predator was present places an unreasonable burden on farmers and ignores the preventative nature of these animals’ work. This bill would undermine the effectiveness of livestock protection, potentially increase livestock losses, and place additional financial and emotional strain on small farms. It could also discourage responsible predator deterrence practices, which ultimately benefit both farmers and wildlife by reducing the need for lethal control. I respectfully ask you to reconsider and oppose HB 1133 in its current form. Any legislation affecting working farms should be developed in consultation with agricultural producers who understand the practical realities of livestock management in our state. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely,? Joseph Garcia Oviedo