Following recent reports of dog bites and attacks on cats and wildlife, the Haines Borough Police Department said it will enforce the laws against residents who let their dogs wander free.

Police posted a reminder on their Facebook page last week for dog owners to keep their pets under control. Police chief Heath Scott said in the last month a boy was bitten by a loose dog, a cat was killed by two loose dogs on private property, and three dogs chased a moose and its calf.

“Haines PD will be actively enforcing the dog-at-large issues and will be citing the owners that fail to control their dogs,” the post said. Police also shared the list of fines, according to borough code, for offenses of having an unlicensed animal; an animal that runs, chases or jumps at moving vehicles; snaps, jumps on, or injures a person; chases or harasses moose; and constantly barks or howls. Penalties range from $50 to $300 and are higher if a dog is not spayed or neutered.

“We’re trying to bring a little bit more awareness,” Scott said. “We’re just asking for dog owners to be a little more responsible when it comes to managing pets so others don’t pay the consequences.”

Scott said the police department would like to encourage Haines residents to change their behavior and take responsibility for spaying and neutering, registering and managing their pets “in a healthy and appropriate way.”

“Occasionally, pets are going to get off leash or run out of the house, that’s normal. We’re trying to target consistent violations,” Scott said. “In circumstances where it’s warranted, we will charge fines,”

Haines Animal Rescue Kennel provides animal control services for the borough. Scott said the department often drops off loose dogs to the shelter and will consult HARK staff to assess if a dog is dangerous.

Director Tracy Mikowski said it’s not unusual for HARK to temporarily house dogs that have roamed from home. Most loose dogs are impounded on holiday weekends and during summer months.

“Having the police officers willing to take the enforcement a step further … is great,” Mikowski said. “It’s all about safety.”

HARK offers dog licenses: $20 for a dog that’s not spayed or neutered and $10 for a fixed dog. The shelter also offers micro-chipping and periodically hosts spay and neuter clinics. Call 766-3334 for more information.