In a truly remarkable and heartwarming story, a furry hero named Buffy is changing the game in healthcare!
This incredible 2-year-old yellow Labrador retriever is making history as the only COVID-19 scent detection dog currently working in a U.S. hospital.
You can find her diligently on duty at Doctors Hospital of Sarasota, part of an innovative pilot program launched in April 2021 with Southeastern Guide Dogs.
Buffy’s mission? To screen visitors for COVID-19.
With an astounding accuracy of about 95 percent, she’s trained to detect a subtle chemical change in a person’s immune system that signals the presence of the virus.
When Buffy picks up on the scent, she calmly lies down at the visitor’s feet, signaling that they should be offered a free COVID test.
Chosen for her unparalleled sense of smell and wonderfully calm demeanor, Buffy underwent rigorous training.
She learned to identify the scent from deactivated virus samples and then on actual people, all while masterfully ignoring distractions.
But her role isn’t just about detection; Buffy is also a beacon of comfort.
She provides invaluable stress relief and pet therapy for the hospital’s dedicated caregivers, who have tirelessly served on the pandemic’s front lines.
Working a few days a week with plenty of breaks, Buffy continues her regular training to keep her sniffing skills sharp.
When she’s off duty, this remarkable dog enjoys walks, playtime, and simply being a cherished family member.
Buffy, her dedicated handler Grace Welsby, and the entire medical team are truly a testament to innovation and compassion, protecting and comforting everyone at the hospital.
