Doggy DNA test to transform Tarragona streets

Councillors in the north-eastern city of Tarragona are hot on the trail of negligent dog owners who leave their dogs’ mess in public places.

Working with the police and a local university, the council plans to develop a DNA database of locally-registered pets, which number more than 2,800 in the Mediterranean city.

It is hoped that the database will enable city authorities to keep better tabs on local pets and their owners. When droppings are found in a public place, they can be tested and matched with an identity. On the basis of this evidence, a fine can then be issued to the pet owner.

Ivana Martinez, Tarragona’s city councillor for public places, has said that the new scheme will start “as soon as possible” though a final date is yet to be confirmed.