Using human saliva samples, dogs from Hanover’s University of Veterinary Medicine in Germany are learning to use their clever little snouts to sniff out the cells of people infected with COVID-19. Given the pooches are able to pinpoint the odour at a 94% accuracy, Hanover’s premier has expressed interest in giving the pups the very special task of putting their noses to the test at concerts and other public events around Hanover.
Across the globe, pup nose power is already being used to target the virus, with Chile and Finland employing sniffer dogs at their international airports. Stories of such sensory intelligence reminds us to appreciate just how incredible our furry friends really are. Having the potential to assist communities around the world in defeating the virus, the sniffer dog initiative might just be following a scent in the right direction. Read more