Residents of a new apartment complex in Lebanon NH will not be able to give that furtive sidelong glance and leave the poop behind while walking their dogs, at least not without consequence. The apartment manager means business and will conduct DNA tests on any future evidence left at the scene.
Timberwood Commons apartment complex manager Debbie Violette has sent notice to residents that they must clean up after their dogs or face potential fines. She has purchased commercially available animal DNA test kits, and resident dogs will have saliva swab samples on file for matching against evidence sent to the lab for testing.
This comes as a last resort after dog waste was found all over the lawns and walkways of the new complex, which Ms. Violette is determined to keep clean. Presumably, the possibility of DNA testing will be an effective deterrent.
Resident Billy Clough has weighed the issue and says the prospect of DNA testing seems “way over the top,” but acknowledges the unpleasant aspect of those surprises left by thoughtless neighbors. “Coming out in your dress shoes first thing in the morning, you step in a pile. That’s no fun.”
