HONOLULU – A significant incident on Saturday underscores the urgent need for compliance with beach leash laws in the state of Hawaii, particularly regarding the endangered Hawaiian monk seal.
A 43-year-old woman was issued a civil resource violation by the DLNR Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) for allowing her dog to roam off-leash at a beach in a state park.
Photographic evidence from the encounter depicts the dog engaged with a group of adults and children, causing immediate concern for the local wildlife.
This particular citation stems from an alarming event where an off-leash dog charged directly toward a resting Hawaiian monk seal named Holokai, identified by the tag RG40.
The seal was forced to retreat to the water due to the presence of the dog, prompting a response from a DOCARE officer and a volunteer from the Hawai‘i Marine Animal Response (HMAR), who approached the group playing with the dog in the water.
Under state law, dogs—whether on or off-leash—are generally prohibited from most state parks.
The beaches under the jurisdiction of the DLNR Division of State Parks specifically ban dogs unless they are service animals.
Similar regulations apply to areas designated as Natural Area Reserves under the DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife (DOFAW).
The Hawaiian monk seal, a species that is both state and federally protected, is currently facing multiple threats, including those posed by domestic animals.
Violations of the laws protecting this species can lead to warnings, citations, or stricter penalties based on the violation’s severity and specific circumstances.
This event highlights the critical importance of leash laws, especially during this peak pupping season.
With 11 monk seal pups born on O‘ahu thus far in the 2025 season, it is a crucial time for the survival of these endangered marine mammals.
The peak birthing season typically spans from March through August, coinciding with the heightened vulnerability of seal pups.
The Hawaiian monk seal population, which is already estimated at a mere 1,600 individuals, relies heavily on the survival of pups for its recovery.
Off-leash dogs present a serious threat to these young seals; even the most well-intentioned dogs can easily injure or kill a pup.
Furthermore, dogs are themselves at risk, as wild Hawaiian monk seals possess powerful jaws and a capability to inflict severe injuries in defense of their young.
Protective mothers can cause significant harm—deep wounds, broken bones, or infections can result from altercations between dogs and seals.
Preserving beaches as resting areas for monk seals is particularly important, especially during the summer months.
By simply keeping dogs leashed, pet owners can play a vital role in safeguarding monk seal pups.
Disturbances to seals’ natural behaviors can have long-lasting consequences, including the potential abandonment of pups and birthing sites.
To contribute to conservation efforts, dog owners are strongly encouraged to keep dogs leashed and to steer clear of areas known to be frequented by monk seals and their pups.
Following posted guidelines and directions from marine wildlife officials is essential for the protection of these animals.
For pet owners in O‘ahu, the City and County of Honolulu provides a list of designated on- and off-leash dog parks, which can be consulted for appropriate places to play with dogs.
Community engagement and responsible pet ownership are crucial for the ongoing survival of the Hawaiian monk seal population.
With collective efforts, the pups can thrive and eventually contribute to future generations of their species.
image source from：dlnr
