Diabetic Alert Dogs (DAD)
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What is a Diabetic Alert Dog?A diabetic alert dog ( or a D.A.D) is a service dog specifically trained to detect and alert their handler to high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) episodes. What is a Diabetic Alert Dog trained to do?Diabetic Alert Dogs are taught to alert within a specific range that is tailored to the individual. This helps the diabetic individual catch a high or low before it comes dangerous. Diabetic alert dogs can benefit any individuals with Type 1 Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes or anyone with hypoglycemic episodes. These amazing dogs give loved ones a sense of security knowing you have constant monitoring. What other tasks can a Diabetic Alert Dog do to help me?All of our diabetic alert dogs are taught to retrieve several items including life saving medicine, a beverage from the fridge or even a cell phone. The dogs are also taught to perform some balance/ mobility tasks to help prevent their person from falling during potential dizzy spells. In cases of children with diabetes, the dog can be taught to wake up a parent or ring a bell to get help from a parent during the night. What age do I have to be to receive a Diabetic Alert Dog?Applicants need to be five (5) years of age or older, as the person receiving the dog should be able to manage the dog on their own accord in public places. In extreme cases, Domesti-PUPS has placed service dogs and skilled companions in families where the parent is the handler of the dog (we refer to these as 'Dependent Service Dogs'). Why get a Diabetic Alert Dog when there is monitoring technology available?In the last several years there have been significant advances in glucose monitoring that can give you constant readings. In cases with technology, they are a one-size-fits-all solution designed to work for any individual with a need for glucose monitoring. A diabetic alert dog is trained to detect your individual scent and is trained to alert to changes outside of a range determined by you and your doctor. With the use of this scent as well as the human/animal bond, we have found that our diabetic alert dogs can often detect and alert to a change up to 30 minutes prior to what a glucometer can detect. How do I apply for a Diabetic Alert Dog?Click here to complete an application request. |