London 3/10/2011 12:00:00 AM
News / Entertainment

Dog sniffs out diabetes

A dog in the UK is being trained to detect diabetes.

Jack Russell Tiny has such a sensitive nose, he sniffs out sweet snacks and can tell if someone who suffers from the condition is having a dangerous dip in their blood sugar levels.

The little pup was found abandoned by the side of the road and wasn't expected to survive but amazed staff at animal charity Blue Cross by not only making a full recovery but displaying his unusual talent to sniff out chocolate.

Spokeswoman Laura Jeffries said: "Tiny is very food focused. He will sniff your pockets for food and bark whenever you have anything like a chocolate bar on you. One time he was barking and no one knew why until they discovered a chocolate bar had been left in the office 30ft away. He's got an incredible gift.

"Five weeks ago Tiny was wandering the streets alone and now he is getting the chance to turn his luck around. He may be small but he could have a big impact on someone's life."