Dog DNA to tackle fouling problem as councillors angered by lack of fines handed out

Over 18,000 licensed dogs could be set for DNA testing as a Northern Ireland council looks to tackle a major dog fouling problem, with only one pet owner fined in a three month period.

Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council (LCCC) has been urged by its elected members to review the possibility of biological testing to identify pets and their owners for leaving dog mess in public areas.

Councillors reacted after being shocked at new quarter year statistics, showing only one dog fouling fine handed out from April to June, whilst just under 3,000 licences were approved in the same period.

Castlereagh East Alliance councillor, Martin Gregg said: “Dog fouling is the single biggest issue across the board.

“There has only been one person fined for dog fouling. Our dog wardens can’t be everywhere to catch offenders.

“I think it is time to revisit the possibility of using DNA testing. The costs of which could be proportionate with fines.”