With over 220 million olfactory cells, the canine nose is over four times stronger than the human nose. This is why dogs have been so helpful to us in search and rescue missions, drug detection, explosive detection and now, even cancer detection.
McBaine is a regal-looking dog with attentive eyes that is part of a research held in the University of Pennsylvania. Researchers say he, and others like him, are over 90 percent successful in identifying the scent of ovarian cancer, found in tissue samples. Discoveries like this sheds new light on a disease that has no effective test for early detection, and kills 14,000 Americans a year. Past studies have found that cancer-sniffing dogs can also detect prostate cancer by smelling urine samples, with 98 percent accuracy. |
There are even examples of this amazing ability in the real world like Max, the dog that smelled his owner's breast cancer. Despite these findings and stories, there is still some skepticism whether this method can be used on a large scale. As a result, most current research is focusing on how to copy the canine ability to smell the disease, either with a machine or a chemical test. When the dogs "smell cancer", what they really smell are the chemicals emitted by the tumor which are called volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. The hope of chemists, doctors and physicists is to create an "electronic nose" to mimic this ability. This method is preferred because using dogs in a clinical setting isn't very practical. In addition, they take a long time to train and their effectiveness can vary from breed to breed, and from dog to dog. |
Even if dogs will never be officially used as medical "cancer sniffers" their ability is still truly remarkable. It's another reminder that they are called "man's best friend" for a good reason. |
9 Myths About Mushrooms BUSTED For Good
Can we eat mushrooms raw or must we cook them first? Do they all have medicinal properties? And how can they help with cancer?
New ‘Trojan Horse’ Drug Tricks and Kills Cancer Cells
A new drug-delivery system promises to deliver the chemo drug straight into tumors with fewer side effects.
Does COVID-19 Affect Pets?
The first dog was tested positive in Hong Kong recently. What does it mean and what is the effect of the corona virus on pets?
If You Have a Dog, Here's How Apple Cider Vinegar Can Help
Not many people are aware that you can use apple cider vinegar for their dog. Here's how!
7 Natural and Effective Home Remedies for Your Dog
Try out these natural home remedies to treat a range of health issues for your beloved canine companion.
Who Knew Owls Could Be This Funny? I Sure Didn't
I never knew owls can so cute and funny! What a riot.
What Talent! These Toys Are Made Entirely From Wool
These adorable toys are made from wool. Take a look:
Why Dogs Will Always be a Man's Best Friend!
If you needed more proof as to why dogs will and always will be man's best friend, you need look no further.
When Kids Are at the Zoo, Hilarious Things Tend to Happen
This video takes us to the funniest moment of excited kids meeting their favorite animals at the zoo.
A Sweeter Friendship Than This One Is Hard to Find...
This goes to show you - animals can have an even better code of conduct than humans do.
Take A Look At 18 Of the Animal Kingdom’s Redheads!
Did you know that redheads also exist in the animal kingdom? Get to know 18 beautiful and charming animals that'll add some color to your day!
Hen Asks Cat to Watch Her Chicks as She Takes a Nap
Who knew cats made such wonderful babysitters for baby chicks? This heartwarming video will infuse your day with cuteness and affection!
If You're Having a Bad Day These Dogs Will Make You Smile
Here are 14 heartwarming moments of dogs that will surely make you smile.
These Innovations Will Make Every Pet’s Life Better
Calling all pet owners! Take a look at these awesome inventions that will make your furry buddy’s life much better.
These Loveable Doggies are in Rare Form...
These photos are all about the funny poses and silly scenes we sometimes find our dogs in.
Cats Blissfully Sleep in the Most Intriguing of Places...
These hilarious photos prove that cats will lay their head just about anywhere.
These Deliriously Content Animals Will Make You Happy Too!
It's scientifically impossible to feel down in the dumps when looking at these wonderful animal smiles, surely!
Heart Melting: These Animals All Want a Hug!
The animals in this video want nothing more than your love and your hugs, it's enough to melt anyone's heart.
Tree-Kangaroos Are the Cutest Animals in Australia!
Have you ever heard of a tree-kangaroo? If not, take a look as they're extremely cute!
Adorable Cats & Dogs Sure Make My Day!
You can witness hilarious, adorable situations and more in the compilation of funny videos featuring delightful cats and dogs.
This Man Built a Squirrel Obstacle Course In His Yard...
This video is one of the most fun things I've seen all week!
This Purrfect Cat Poem Will Make You Smile From Ear to Ear
We dedicate this post to all the cat owners, who will surely be able to relate to the words of this Cat Prayer-Poem.
You Couldn't Wish for a Better Childhood Friend...
These furry child keepers are the perfect companions for love and fun.
These Cats Really Are Excited for Christmas
Humans are not the only ones who get excited for Christmas. Check out these 18 photos which show that cats also love the festive season - especially the trees!
15 Pictures of Gorgeous Cats and Their Adorable Mini-Me's
Owners of these cats will have a hard time telling the kittens apart from the parents once they reach adulthood. In the meantime, enjoy these 15 cute pics!
These Photos Prove Running Brings Out the Best in Dogs!
A dog photographer has captured photos of dogs on the run, showing their unabashed joy and happiness in the most heartwarming way possible.
Huskies are ALWAYS a Source of Smiles and Laughter!
Even if Huskies may be too demanding for you to raise, you can still enjoy some of their silliest and fun moments right here.
16 Times Cat Logic Made No Sense At All...
Cats don't always make clear what their plan is... so at times their logic seems... hilarious!
These 23 Hilarious Kitties Have Some Real Cat-titude!
Cats bring so much joy to world because they are both cute and hilarious, in equal measure. These 23 funny kitties will prove just that!
Dog Lovers, You're Going to Agree With Every Word...
There are so many beautiful stories about man's best friend.
Cute Kitten Becomes Obsessed With a Lizard - Aww!
This funny little feline named Atlas insists on having very unusual company. Her best friend is none other than a big green lizard named Junior...
This Tiny Octopus Gets Excited When His Human Visits
Watch this tiny octopus as it gets excited and 'plays' with his human friend.
Sometimes, All a Cat Needs Is a Dog to Sleep On
All a cat truly desires is a cozy and comfortable spot... and what better place than resting on the dog?
Who Says Cats Don't Miss Us?
This compilation of cats welcoming their humans is proof cats have feelings too.
Kindergartner and Funny Duck Are the Best of Friends
Ducks aren't very popular as pets, as they can be rowdy and noisy, but Tyler doesn't mind it at all, as he loves his pet duck.
This Family Thought They Brought Home a Dog, Not a Cat!
Dogs are highly adaptable creatures, like Mako, the table-climbing dog who was likely raised by cats and is now convinced that he is one!
Adorable Rescue Puppy and Kitten Have Become Great Friends
Watch as an adorable Shih-tzu puppy plays and has fun with his cute feline best friend. This video is guaranteed to help brighten up your day.
These Must Be the Cutest Puppies Ever! Wouldn't You Agree?
These 20 photos of adorable puppies will simply melt your heart!
A Terrific Dance of Dog and Human!
In this fantastic dance, this pet owner uses a mirror to convey both subtext and some fabulous dance steps for her 4-legged partner.
I've Never Seen a Cockatiel Sing Like This. I'm Amazed!
I knew cockatiels can talk, but I never knew that some of their community are THIS talented!
If You Don't Love Foxes Yet, This May Change Your Mind
These foxes are so beautiful and adorable, it's impossible not to love them.
You Wouldn't Believe What These Cross Breed Cats Look Like
These cross breed cats will surprise you with their genetic make up.
Seeing Animals Hug May Just Be the Best Thing Ever
Is there anything more endearing than animals hugging?
They Start Small & Delicate But Grow Into Stunning Animals
Watch how quickly pandas grow and change in just 100 days
These Cute Little Fellas Will One Day be Deadly Hunters!
Pictures of cute cubs of wild cats