Extractracting DNA from dog poo to trace the owner

A province in Italy plans to identify dog owners, who neglect to clean up after their pets using DNA testing on the feces. 

Bolzano is establishing a dog DNA registration database, enabling street cleaners and health officials to collect samples for genetic testing. 

Dog owners identified through DNA will face fines ranging from 50 to 500 euros, while those refusing DNA profiling for their pets may incur fines up to 1,048 euros. 

The provincial government, covering Bolzano and surrounding areas, is creating the database for nearly 40,000 dogs, with approximately 10,000 already registered. 

The initiative aims to address citizen complaints about improper land management, especially related to dogs. Other Italian cities and locations globally, including parts of London, Tarragona, Seattle, and Tel Aviv, have considered or implemented similar schemes. 

Bolzano’s DNA registration, set to become mandatory in late March, involves blood tests for dogs, costing owners up to 100 euros or more. 

Tourists and non-residents in this mountainous German-speaking province will be exempt from the regulation. The fines imposed are expected to cover detection and administration expenses.