FOR Mable, a bearded collie cross from Tavistock, taking a cat nap a few times a day is all part of her normal routine.

This is because the four year-old dog suffers from a rare canine form of narcolepsy — which means at any moment Mable can suddenly fall asleep.

Her owners, Trevor and Sara Gliddon from Bishopsmead, are now used to seeing their pet take a sudden nap, especially after Mable becomes excited.    

Trevor said: 'Vets say it is a very unusual condition and quite bizarre, but as far as they are concerned "if it ain't broke don't fix it."

'She tends to fall asleep when she gets over-stimulated and excited, especially if she's out running with other dogs on Dartmoor.

'She will just suddenly lie there.

'It's as if she's been hit by a sniper with a rifle.

'Mable will be completely motionless for five or six seconds then, after a few twitches, she will be up and running again. It's quite strange.'

Trevor, 46 and a freelance press photographer, first came into contact with mable when they found her on Dartmoor last year, after she had slipped from her temporary owner's lead. 

When they learned that her previous owner had a heart condition and was unable to look after her, the Gliddons kindly offered to adopt the loveable mutt.

At the time they did not realise they had inherited a famous pet. In 2006 when Mable lived at the Dog's Trust in Berkshire, the Daily Express ran an article and picture appealing to its readers to give the dog a home.  

She also appeared in the Trust's television campaign on 'This Morning'.

Apart from her narcolepsy, Mable enjoys a normal 'dog's life' and — like most dogs guarding their territory —she becomes a little excited when the postman pays a visit.

Trevor said: 'When the postman calls Mable will skid down the hallway, wag her tail, give a couple of woofs before falling down fast asleep.'

Mable gets along very well with the Gliddon's other dog, five-year-old black Labrador Aimee.

'It's quite funny,' said Trevor.

'If I say the magic word "walkies" Aimee can't wait to go out but Mable doesn't seem too excited.

I don't think its because she's lazy, its probably because she is sensible — especially if the weather isn't too good!'