A dog owner from Lacey was cited by Ocean Shores Police for having an animal at large on Sunday after his dog attacked horses and injured one rider on the beach just north of the Chance a la Mer beach approach.

Witnesses reported that a pitbull was chasing two horses down the beach when police were called at 1:46 p.m., said a news release from Sgt. David McManus. One horse had a rider, while the other did not.

The rider, a 15-year old girl from Hoquiam, was thrown from the horse as it ran from the dog.

“The dog did bite both horses, causing severe lacerations,” the news release said, but “the dog did not attack the girl in any way.”

The rider was transported to Grays Harbor Community Hospital by ambulance. The full extent of her injuries is not known at this time.

The horses are rental horses, owned by the Honey Pearl Ranch, which is licensed by the city to rent horses.

Police said the dog’s owner is a 31-year old man from Lacey, and he was issued an infraction ticket. After further investigation by the Code Enforcement/Animal Control Officer, additional charges may be filed, the news release said. The dog also may be declared a potentially dangerous dog, which has other sanctions.

“The Ocean Shores Police Department would like to remind everyone that dogs must be kept on a leash everywhere in the city, including the beach and city parks. The only exception is the Dog Training Area on the beach just south of the Taurus beach approach.”