It is no surprise that dogs are playing an important part in worldwide efforts to detect Covid-19. Since April, specialists have been working with scent-detection dogs, mostly German Shepherds and Labradors, to develop their ability to sniff out this incredibly contagious virus.
According to researchers, the corona virus causes metabolic changes in humans which in turn affects our sweat, and this change is detectable to dogs. Imagine how useful this could be in detecting carriers that are asymptomatic – that is, they feel and show no obvious symptoms, and so continue in their normal routine with the potential to spread the virus unwittingly.
It is believed one of these dogs could perform scent detection on around 250 people in just one hour!
These highly trained dogs are already being trialled in some countries, nosing their way through airports and hospitals, to help in the detection of Covid-19 carriers. And Australian researchers are working hard to get a program up and running here too.
Time and time again we are reminded of just how valuable our wonderful companions are, and they ask for so little in return – a cuddle, a good meal, a warm bed. How very lucky we are!
You can learn more here –
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