Ask the Mayor: Why Are Dogs Allowed to Run Loose at Baldwin Beach?

Maui Humane Society worker with leashed dog. Courtesy photo.

Mayor Alan Arakawa answers some of the questions submitted to his office staff.

Submit your own questions about County of Maui programs, services, operations or policies to Mayor Alan Arakawa via email at [email protected], call 270-7855 or send them by mail to 200 S. High St., 9th Floor, Wailuku, HI 96793. Questions submitted will be considered for inclusion in the “Ask the Mayor” column.

Dear Mr. Mayor,

Q: Please do something to enforce the leash law at Baldwin Beach. I regularly walk my dog on this beach and see unleashed dogs on a regular basis.

This morning, an aggressive Australian sheepdog chased me and my leashed, 25-pound Shiba Inu. It was barking loudly and out of control.

This is not the first time I have been attacked. In January 2013, I went to the emergency room to get stitches after getting attacked by a dog in the parking lot at Baldwin Beach.

A: I’m sorry to hear that you were injured. I checked with Maui Humane Society and was informed that they continually patrol all beaches as time allows. Last month alone, MHS made 299 beach checks.

At Baldwin Beach Park, county Ocean Safety Officers call MHS when there is a problem.

If a dog is off-leash, the owner can be fined and be required to go to court.

To report a leash law violation, call MHS at (808) 877-3680, ext. 211.