Man’s best friend now being used in the early detection of some diseases

But now man’s best friend is proving even more of a pedigree chum – by helping in the detection of disease.

The charity Medical Detection Dogs (MDD) started as Cancer and Bio-detection Dogs in 2008 to train dogs to alert people with conditions such as diabetes, Addisons disease and narcolepsy to an impending attack.

Researchers are also working on an early cancer screening system, using a dog’s sense of smell.

The Lions clubs of Luton and Dunstable have supported the organisation since Dunstable treasurer Geoff Lambert first heard about it on the radio.

“It was such an incredible story,” he said. “A lady was talking about her dog licking her breast before she was diagnosed with breast cancer. After she was cured, he stopped doing it.”

Geoff convinced his Lions’ district boss to make MDD a major charity initiative.

“It harnesses something that nature has provided – a dog’s sense of smell,” he explained.

“The charity is run by volunteers. It comes to patients’ aid when conventional medicine is unable to help.

“It isn’t a cure but acts as a 24 hour monitoring system.

“It’s wonderful to be able to do that, particularly with something like diabetes.”

Luton is a hot spot for the condition and the Lions have spearheaded a campaign to raise funds and awareness.

Geoff said: “An unfortunate minority – usually those with type 1 diabetes – are unable to recognise warning signs of an oncoming attack.

“Their blood sugar levels run low and they fall into a coma.

“Now dogs have been specially trained to detect changes in the person’s breath.”

An MDD spokesperson said: “Depending on their owner’s needs, the dogs will alert them in a variety of ways – by barking, jumping up, licking or pawing.

“They will bring any necessary medical supplies such as glucose and blood testing kits and get help if necessary.

“They can also be trained to push alarm buttons.”

Geoff said: “The dogs have a profound impact on the quality of life of diabetic sufferers.

“The alternative is having to take blood tests 24/7 to avoid a coma.

“The dog becomes the patient’s life support system –a true best friend.”

Patients can supply their own dogs but most come via rescue homes. They cost about £12,000 to train and are in service for around 12 years.

The Lions are organising a charity horse riding relay at Luton’s Sunshine Riding School on Warden Hill Road on Monday (April 9) to raise enough money to train a dog.

They are also holding a tin shake outside Sainsbury’s in Dunstable next Thursday and Friday (April 12 and 13).

Donations can also be made directly to the website at www.medicaldetectiondogs.org.uk