Sheriff's officials along with animal services spent Wednesday rounding up stray and loose dogs in the Montana Vista area.

Officers with the City of El Paso Animal Services Division and Animal Control Unit Officers from the sheriff's office were looking for owners who did not have their dogs on leashes or properly secured.

The operation aimed to reduce the number of stray or loose dogs in the county, and to prevent the stray animal population from growing.

Officials said citizens who live in unincorporated areas of the county and own pets are required to have their pets vaccinated. Those found in violation of the State Health and Safety Code were cited and some may have their animals impounded, officials said.

After the operation, deputies said 29 dogs were impounded, including two surrendered by their owner. A total of 22 citations were issued for animals without their current rabies vaccinations.