POLICE SNIFFER DOG DIES AFTER DRUG SEARCH

A police sniffer dog died of a suspected overdose after a drug search.

Lancashire Police said Tuesday that Todd, a seven-year-old springer spaniel,
fell ill after searching a car and field in Preston, northwest England, on
July 24. His handler took him to a vet, but his condition deteriorated and
he died at Liverpool University's specialist animal unit.

A police spokeswoman said a veterinarian had said the dog's symptoms were
consistent with an amphetamine overdose. Blood samples were being analysed
to confirm the cause of death.

Todd had served with the Lancashire force for five years and lived with
handler Roger Moore and his family.

"He lived with them and they would all go for walks with him -- he was their
dog. It was a shock for them," said Sgt. Peter Crane of the force's dog
handling unit.

"He was a little bit daft, like all springers are, but they are good working
dogs and they are very, very keen," he added.