Lucky, the first dog in the United States trained to detect spotted lanternfly eggs, is the subject of the new children’s book, Lucky and the Spotted Lanternfly.

The new book was released by Penn State Extension Master Gardeners and is designed to educate youngsters about the invasive spotted lanternfly, which has wreaked havoc across Pennsylvania and beyond over the past decade.

The book introduces young readers to Lucky, a German shepherd with a super sniffer trained to detect spotted lanternfly egg masses. It showcases Lucky’s unique role in protecting Pennsylvania’s natural resources.

Alongside her handler, Shane Phillips, Lucky inspects nurseries, greenhouses, vehicles, and log yards to locate and prevent the spread of the destructive pest.

“During COVID, we learned about a German shepherd being trained to sniff out spotted lanternfly egg masses,” said co-author Kinorea Tigri, who coordinates the Master Gardener program in Mercer County. “We kept the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture informed every step of the way. They reviewed and approved the book and were excited about it.”

The book narrates Lucky’s journey from a puppy to her training at the Penn Vet Working Dog Center, and the work she does today.

Master Gardeners play a crucial role in combatting the spread of spotted lanternflies through education and outreach.

One of the goals of the new book is to empower children to become more active participants in environment protection.

“We wanted to think outside the box,” Tigri said. “By creating this book, we’ve found a fresh way to reach kids and their families.”

Learn more about or purchase a copy of Lucky and the Spotted Lanternfly at Penn State Extension.

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