DNA used to ensure dog poop cleanup

MANCHESTER, N.H., June 26 (UPI) -- Lebanon, N.H., apartment complex residents are being asked to submit dog DNA samples to determine who isn't cleaning up their dog waste.

The management at the new Timberwood Commons in Lebanon are fed up with residents not cleaning up after their dogs, so they are asking dog owners in the complex to submit DNA samples to figure out who is the culprit and hopefully put an end to the mess, WMUR-TV, Manchester, reported Friday.

"I don't want it to get any worse, and it's not acceptable the way it is," Debbie Violette, the apartment manager, said.

Violette purchased commercial DNA testing kits to catch the offender. A swab from each dog is then sent to a lab, along with a sample of the dog waste left on the property.

While residents find the measure unconventional, they say it's better than the alternative.

"I think the DNA is a little way over the top," said resident Billy Clough. "Coming out in your dress shoes first thing in the morning, you step in a pile. That's no fun."

Violette says she is unsure of what the consequences will be, but hopefully the effort will help promote keeping the apartment complex clean.