Toledo apartment possibly turning to DNA to get renters to pick up dog waste

TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) - A Toledo apartment complex could soon be turning to a company called “PooPrints”, a company using DNA to sniff out doggy doo culprits.

It is a move causing some controversy among some Ravenswood residents.

We spoke with residents on Facebook who said “We are not happy” and “There are more important things to spend $ on here such as renovation of 50-year-old apartments and a swimming pool that leaks.”

We also went into the Ravenswood leasing office Tuesday to try and speak with the property manager. He did not want to do an interview but told us “PooPrints” is an option they are looking at to help fix their dog waste problem, but it is not the only one.

So, what exactly is PooPrints?

According to its website, it is a company that collects dogs’ DNA with a mouth swab to help properties manage pet waste.

Whenever unwanted droppings are found on a property, managers can swab it, put it in a kit, and send it back to a lab in hopes it matches a dog living in the complex.

Although a new concept at Ravenswood it is not new as a whole.

A local property manager who asked to be kept anonymous tells us she has experience with the company.

“The execution is a little poor because you do have to get the consent of the owner. They like actually have to physically provide that swab of DNA,” said the local property manager.“In my opinion, the poo prints are not the best solution. Having residents be more mindful or um, you know, just sending those reminders and keeping up with the day-to-day grounds is going to be the most effective.”

Again, managers at Ravenswood said this move is not set in stone yet, but the notice they sent out says the policy would start in April.

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