Last Updated on October 16, 2023 by Fumipets
Bloodhound Spaniels: The UK’s Secret Weapon in the War Against Bedbugs
In an unconventional yet highly effective move, the United Kingdom has enlisted bloodhound spaniels in its ongoing battle against the bedbug explosion. These canine companions have proven to be valuable assets in the fight against these elusive pests, and their remarkable abilities are revolutionizing pest control efforts.
The Bedbug Menace
Bedbugs are notorious for their stealthy behavior, hiding in various nooks and crannies, including mattress seams, skirting boards, and plug sockets for extended periods, often up to 12 months, without requiring a blood meal. This unique behavior makes them particularly challenging to detect and eliminate, contributing to the growing bedbug crisis in the UK.
The Heroic Hounds
Bloodhound spaniels are a specially bred breed known for their keen sense of smell and exceptional tracking abilities. These popular pets, initially bred as companion dogs, have now become Britain’s secret weapon against the bedbug infestation.
Rapid Detection
One of the remarkable qualities of these spaniels is their astonishing speed in detecting bedbug infestations. In comparison to the typical 20 minutes it might take a human pest control expert to locate bedbugs, these dogs can identify an infestation within seconds. Their agility and precision make them invaluable in quickly pinpointing the source of the problem, saving both time and effort.
Canine Crusaders
A key figure in this unconventional war is dog handler Brian Leith, who operates BDL Canine Services in South Lanarkshire. He explains that his four-year-old sprocker, a mix of cocker and springer spaniel named Benjy, has an extraordinary talent for finding bedbugs in record time. Benjy and Brian visit multiple properties each day, offering their specialized services at a cost ranging from £150 to £350 for an average three-bedroom house.
Real Heroes with Fur
For Lucy Currie in Otley, West Yorkshire, bedbugs are no match for her English springer spaniel, Floyd. Over two years, she and Floyd have been hunting these parasites, with impressive results. Lucy highlights that, for these dogs, it’s more than a job—it’s a game. The joy of finding bedbugs earns them the reward of a tennis ball, a task that is all play to these talented canines.
The Future of Pest Control
These bedbug-sniffing dogs are trained at various schools, including the Bed Bug Foundation (BBF) and the National Association of Security Dog Users. Many hotels now employ them regularly to proactively detect infestations before they escalate.
The use of bloodhound spaniels in the fight against bedbugs is an innovative approach that promises to become a cornerstone in the UK’s pest control strategy. With their unparalleled abilities and relentless determination, these furry heroes are proving that sometimes, the most unexpected allies can make the most significant impact.
Source: Read More on The Mirror
