RESOURCES: Sun State Specialty K-9s | Mold Dog

These dogs just have a nose for trouble.

We're into the rainy season, a time when more moisture can mean a mess for your home. We're talking about mold and getting rid of it can give you a headache.

"Copper" the dog has just completed training that will soon help Central Florida homeowners detect mold growing inside their home.

"A lot of times you're not able to see it with your naked eye. With a dog coming in, the dog can pinpoint exactly where the mold is," explains Hank Nolin, Sun State Specialty K-9s.

Handlers with Sun State Specialty K-9's have spent hundreds of hours getting their dogs trained to sniff out mold. "Just like you would for bombs, drugs, or arson, same thing," says trainer Bill Whitstine.

Because mold can grow behind your walls and appliances, even under your carpet, samples of different material are sealed in containers, then placed on a spinning wheel.

"It's a very quick way to train with the dog on a daily basis," says Whitstine.

Florida's high humidity makes the threat of mold a real concern. It can cause severe respiratory problems, even death.

Until now, you'd probably hire a specialist to detect mold by using air tests. It's a process that could cost thousands of dollars.

But you'll soon be able to use a mold-detecting K-9 for half the cost. They're also a lot faster.

Sun K-9 plans to present this new approach to local government officials. They're already in talks with the Florida Department of Health.