Medical Detection Dogs Colchester needs puppy socialisers

Charity Medical Detection Dogs trains dogs to save lives using their amazing sense of smell.

But the pooches need homes while they undergo their training, with many being trained in north Essex.

It includes Bio Detection Dogs which learn the odour of diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s and malaria.

Freddie, Essex puppy in training, named by Queen Camilla (Image: Public) The charity also trains Medical Alert Assistance Dogs which work with individuals with complex health conditions such as Type 1 diabetes and severe allergies giving them a warning that a medical crisis is about to happen.

The charity, which has Queen Camilla as its patron, has a training centre at Elmstead Market. 

The dogs are paired with individuals who rely on them for early warnings of medical emergencies, allowing them to take action and avoid dangerous situations.

Louise Thomson, from Essex, has experienced first-hand how life-changing these dogs can be.

Louise, who suffers from Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (PoTS), was once unable to go out on her own due to the risk of fainting.

“With Mercedes, my black Labrador, by my side, I no longer worry about fainting,” she said. “She alerts me in time to get to safety. She’s given me my confidence back.”

Mercedes is not just Louise’s assistance dog, but also a loyal companion, helping her live a more independent life.

It all starts with volunteers from Colchester and surrounding areas who serve as puppy socialisers.

These volunteers, like Janice Tugwell, play a vital role in raising young puppies and preparing them for their lifesaving careers.

Janice Tugwell and Freddie (Image: Public) Janice looks after Freddy, a white Labrador named by the charity’s patron, Queen Camilla.

“Becoming a puppy socialiser has been such a rewarding experience,” Janice said.

“Not only do I get to raise Freddy with all the love and care he needs, but I also know that I’m contributing to something much bigger—helping him become a life-saving dog.”

Medical Detection Dogs is looking for more dedicated volunteers from Colchester to join their team of puppy socialisers.

Volunteers need to live within an hour of Elmstead Market.

“Puppy socialisers are the backbone of our charity,” said Chris Allen, Head of Training.

“It’s emotional, but nothing compares to knowing that the dog you raised is out there saving lives.”

If you’re interested in becoming a puppy socialiser and helping train the next generation of life-saving dogs, contact caninesupply@medicaldetectiondogs.org.uk to learn more.

Your support could make all the difference.