Tarragona uses dog DNA testing to fine pet owners

The Tarragona City Council has launched a program to analyze the DNA of dog excrement found on city streets to identify animals and fine their owners. The initiative follows a mandatory genetic census started in February, which has already collected samples from approximately 2,500 animals, representing about 25% of the city's dog population.

Teams consisting of an agent from the Guàrdia Urbana de Tarragona and a technician from the company ADN Canino are collecting samples. Using a process similar to PCR testing, technicians collect samples in specialized tubes for laboratory analysis. If a match is found in the database, the owner faces a 100 euro fine.

In cases where no match is found, the data is used to create heat maps to identify high-frequency waste areas and understand local patterns. The laboratory process involves DNA extraction and capillary electrophoresis to determine the specific DNA profile of the animal.