ALTOONA, Pa. -- With the warmer weather, local pets owners have been bringing their dogs and cats outside, but police in one community said they're having problems with pet owners not abiding by the law.

Altoona police said they've been inundated with calls from residents whose neighbors aren't keeping their dogs and cats on leashes. They said other people are not cleaning up after taking their pets for walks.

The dog law enforcement officer said the biggest problem is owners are walking their pets along streets and in local parks where kids play, and when the animals do their business, the owners aren't picking it up. They've had other problems with dogs and cats, unleashed in the city, wandering out of their back yards and into their neighbors'. Police said that can be dangerous if the animals nip or bite.

Police are reminding pet owners that there are also steep penalties if you don't have your dog on a leash. There is a $100 fine for the first offense. There is another $100 fine if you're caught letting your dog or cat do their business without cleaning up. It is also a costly violation if owners don't take care of their pet properly in the heat.