While Alaska doesn’t have a statewide law, leash laws are enforced in many major cities. It is important to have animals under control when outdoors, especially during winter months. A restraint or confined area greatly increases the safety of animals. When an animal is loose not only are they at risk, other people, animals, and property are as well.
Safety Concerns
Being struck by a vehicle is a major concern when a dog or cat gets loose near a roadway. Loose pets are also at risk of encountering other animals. Other people, their pets, livestock, and personal property may also be at risk of a loose animal. The State of Alaska protects the rights of property owners and severe consequences can follow when a pet damages or injures another persons property.
In Alaska, wild animals are always a concern when enjoying the outdoors. Bears, moose, and porcupines are a few of the dangerous animals one could encounter. Dogs could also cause harm to wild plants, animals and their habitats. Animals lost for days without adequate food, water, and shelter risk dehydration, malnourishment, and in winter hypothermia and frost bite.
Keeping dogs on leashes prevents dog altercations with other people, animals, and wildlife. Many public walking trails throughout the state have signs at each end of the trail providing information on potential leash laws or in some cases where dogs are prohibited completely.
Injuries Do Happen
In rare circumstances, some pets cause injuries to other people. If you or a loved one suffer injuries due to another person’s negligence, it is up to you to hold that person accountable for their negligence. You may need to file a law suit against the owner of pets causing injuries to others.
Contact Merdes Law Office, P.C. to meet with our highly experienced Alaskan personal injury attorney to discuss your case: 907.452.5400 or visit www.merdes.com.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
