The Animal Welfare Department of Alzira has launched an initiative that promises to change the appearance of our streets and the management of our pets. Under the slogan 'I also have Alzira DNA', an identification system is being implemented that goes a step beyond the traditional microchip. From now on, the genetic fingerprint of dogs will be the key to promote owner responsibility and ensure that the municipality remains much cleaner and healthier for everyone.
This measure not only aims to prosecute those who forget to pick up after their pets, but also serves as a protective shield for the animals themselves. Having a DNA-based census registry allows for... to locate lost dogs more quickly or to identify cases of abuse or neglect with irrefutable evidence. Ultimately, it's a commitment to civic coexistence that places the town on the list of municipalities applying genetic technology to improve urban life.
Deadlines and costs of the new mandatory registration
If you have a furry friend running around the house, it's important not to delay payments. The City Council has designed a progressive price schedule, so the neighbors who hurry up By completing the process, you can save a few euros. From July 1st to September 30th, 2026, DNA extraction will cost 35 euros, a discounted rate to encourage early participation.
As the year progresses, the price will increase slightly. Between October and December 2026, the rate will rise to 40 euros, while from January 2027 onwards... The final cost will be 45 eurosThe intention is that by the start of the new year, the vast majority of the approximately 4.000 dogs estimated to live in Alzira will be properly registered in the municipal database.
How to process the identification tag and DNA
The procedure is quite simple and, most importantly, won't cause your dog any discomfort. First, you need to fill out a form using the QR codes you'll find on campaign brochures and posters and make the payment. Once you've done this, You will receive a voucher in your email. With this, you can book an appointment at the veterinary clinics that collaborate with the company ADN Canino on this project.
The authorized centers for collecting samples are ClÃnica Veterinaria Castells, Alzivet, and La Terreta. During the appointment, the veterinarian will painlessly collect a small saliva sample from the animal and give it to the owner. a badge with a QR codeThis tag is essential, as anyone who finds the dog if it gets lost will be able to scan it to see the animal's name and the owner's contact number immediately.
Surveillance and penalties on public roads
The regulations will become truly enforced from January 1, 2027, the date on which sampling patrols will begin. A specialized technician from the contracted company will patrol the city's most problematic areas, such as Tulell, the river area, and the vicinity of the Gloria Fuertes school, always accompanied by a local police officer to draw up a report and guarantee the veracity of the evidence collected in the street.
Failing to pick up after your dog or not registering your dog by the end of the season can be quite costly. Fines for these uncivil behaviors They can range from 100 to 750 euros For minor infractions, the fine is reduced, although the municipal ordinance stipulates much higher penalties, up to €3.000, for very serious cases or repeated offenses. This is a way to ensure that no one evades their responsibilities as a property owner.
A model based on the success of other cities
This strategy is not a blind experiment, but rather is based on the excellent results obtained in neighboring towns such as Almussafes. In that municipality, since the implementation of genetic control, The presence of feces in the streets has decreased by 90%.This is a fact that inspires optimism, as it demonstrates that the measure works as a powerful deterrent for that small percentage of owners who still do not comply with basic cleaning standards.
Ultimately, the goal is for civic responsibility to be the prevailing characteristic in all neighborhoods of Alzira. With the collaboration of the police, cleaning crews, and, above all, responsible property owners, the aim is to making enjoying public spaces more pleasant for everyone. DNA registration thus becomes an essential tool to ensure that having a pet is synonymous with responsibility and respect for the rest of the neighbors.
