Police want dog DNA database

POLICE want to create a database of dog DNA to collar animals responsible for livestock attacks.

Officers from five forces have made a raft of recommendations including owners being legally obliged to tell police if their pet goes after a captive animal. They also want the law changed so animals including llamas, alpacas, emus and ostriches are defined as livestock.

The National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for wildlife and rural crime, Chief Constable David Jones, said: ‘Livestock worrying is a very significant issue for farmers that impacts on their livelihoods. We need dog owners to take responsibility for their animals.’

Animal welfare minister Lord Gardiner said he will look closely at the recommendations.