K9MD was founded by Pauline Blomfield, with a vision to develop a non-invasive diagnostic test for the early detection of cancer. Through determination and persistence, K9MD has grown from a simple concept into a world-leading organisation in canine medical detection, supported by a dedicated scientific and medical team. The initiative emerged in response to New Zealand’s alarming cancer statistics. Every month in New Zealand 58 men die from Prostate cancer. Every week 23 people die from Bowel Cancer and every 48 hours one woman dies from Ovarian cancer. 

These harsh realities, and the knowledge that early detection can save lives inspired the desire to develop a simple non-invasive test to support any current tests and assist early diagnosis where no tests were available.

At K9 Medical Detection New Zealand, genetically selected dogs like Golden Labrador Hogan, German shepherd Hunter and Black labrador Skye are trained in a clinical setting to detect and alert to the unique volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from ovarian cancer cells in patient urine samples. These dogs begin their journey with sound environmental training, basic obedience and a strong work ethic regime. Once the dogs have reached maturity, they are introduced to the cancer-specific odour to commence their basic odour imprinting. Over a 12-to-18-month training period, the dogs undergo significant training and are introduced to multiple patient samples both positive for and negative to the cancer. This ensures the dogs learn to distinguish between contaminant odours and the imprinted cancer odour. Substantial data is collected, and the dogs’ level of proficiency is regularly monitored to determine sensitivity and specificity success.

"K9MD collaborates with leading scientists and medical professionals. A dog’s natural sensory ability can change the narrative on ovarian cancer from late stage diagnosis to early intervention, from uncertainty to hope and from loss to survival. Dogs truly are a women’s best friend”.  

Pauline Blomfield, Founder and Chief Executive, K9 Medical Detection NZ