DNA database bid to combat dog mess in Flintshire

Plans to set up a dog DNA database to catch owners who fail to clean up after their pets have taken another step forward in Flintshire.

Councillors voted to set up a task group to look into creating the system during a meeting at Mold County Hall on Wednesday.

Swabs taken from dogs' mouths would be entered into a database and could then be used to compare with swabs from dog mess left in public areas.

Owners would be liable for a £75 fine.

Councillor Arnold Woolley, who tabled the idea, wants dog owners to pay around £30 to join the database with a more expensive annual fee for those who refuse to sign voluntarily.

The testing would be carried out through Flintshire firm Streetkleen using techniques pioneered in America and which have been credited with a reduction of up to 90% in dog mess in some public areas.