Dogs are often seen as loyal companions-- but what if they could also help save lives? There has been real case where dog noticed unusual changes in their owner, leading to early detection of cancer.
In one case, a woman observed her pet dog repeatedly sniffing and pawing at specific area. What seemed like normal behavior turned out to be something serious-- she later found a lump that was diagnosed as breast cancer.
Scientifically, dogs have an extremely sensitive sense of smell. They can detect tiny chemical substances, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released by the body. Certain diseases, including cancer, can cause changes in these compounds.
Research has shown promising results, with trained dogs identifying samples from patients with specific cancers. However, this field is still developing, and results can vary.
It’s important to understand that dogs are not diagnostic tools. Medical tests and clinical evaluations remain the standard. Still these observations highlight the importance of paying attention to unusual signs and seeking timely medical advice.
Do you think animals can truly sense diseases before human do?
MBH/PS