dog dies of overdose

A BRITISH police sniffer dog has died from a suspected amphetamine overdose after taking part in a drugs search, police said.

The black and white Springer spaniel, named Todd, became unwell after hunting for illegal substances in a field and car in Preston, northwest England, late last month.

The dog's handler, Constable Roger Moore, noticed the seven-year-old animal was ill about an hour after finishing the search.

"Todd was taken to the vet, who confirmed that his symptoms were similar to those seen in previous cases where amphetamines have been ingested," said a spokeswoman for Lancashire Police.

The dog was taken to the animal unit at nearby Liverpool University, but died later.