The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Former guide dog sniffs out new challenge
AKinross guide dog has taken up a new challenge as part of an elite medical de tec tion dog team trained to s n i ff out Covid-19.
Iva n , a tw o - y e a r - o l d Labrador-golden retriever cross, joined the team last week and has already begun training to detect the coronavirus odour on individuals.
Dogs have already trained to detect diseases like cancer, Parkinson’s and bacterial infections by sniffing samples and indicating found it.
Ivan joins the elite Covid squad a f ter be ing withdrawn from guide dog training because he was too distracted by other dogs when out on walks, an issue that would be difficult for a person with sight loss to manage.
He also loves toys, which has become a great advantage in his new role with Medical Detection Dogs.
Eilidh training adviser when they have
Archibald, a and behaviour at Guide Dogs
Scotland, said: “Ivan is a very enthusiastic and fun dog to have worked with.
“He throws himself into a task he enjoys with a wagging tail and keenness to do it all again.
“Ivan’s energy levels are high and he enjoys a good run, especially at the beach where he is partial to a dip but a bit wary of the waves.”
Chris Allen, dog supply and training manager at Medical Detection Dogs, added: “Ivan’s personality is lovely. He’s very outgoing.
“His interest in searching for articles is really good.
“He doesn’t the game.”
Joining Ivan on the Milton Keynes-based team are two other former guide dog puppies, Maple and Spencer.
Chris said: “We ’re incredibly grateful to Guide Dogs for giving us these three fantastic dogs.
“Growing up as
get
bored
of guide
dog puppies, they ’ve already had lots of experience being out and about in busy public places and meeting lots of people – a huge benefit for us.
“The dogs thoroughly enjoy working – it’s a big game.
“We ’re willingness drive, their using their to please, their wanting to use
their nose, and redirecting it in a positive way.”
Guide Dogs director of canine affairs Tim Stafford said: “Guide Dogs is delighted to be able to support Medical Detection Dogs, and collaborate in the fight against Covid-19 with this ground-breaking work.”