The diagnosis of diabetes can lead to a myriad of changes: continuous medication, new exercise routines, change in diet, more doctor visits, and the list goes on. It can be a hassle, and many patients find it frustrating. This article is to help you decide if having a diabetic alert dog can be helpful for you.
What is a diabetic alert dog?
These dogs are trained to alert their owner if their blood sugar is too low or too high since it can be dangerous. By increasing their awareness, their owners would then take steps to normalize the levels. These dogs not only serve this purpose, but they can also provide companionship and love to their owners.
Mechanism
So, how do these dogs detect the changes? Since their sense of smell is so much better than humans, they can detect specific odors such as those released when there is low or high blood sugar. The changes in smell are caused by the fluctuations of organic chemicals in the body.
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Acquiring a Diabetic Alert Dog
There are several centers that provide the services of a diabetic alert dog. After an agreement, the matching process begins. These centers will try to match you and the dog by assessing your preferences, lifestyle, and personality. They will also request you to provide samples during both low and high blood glucose that will be used to train your specific dog.
Fees
The cost of having a trained diabetic alert dog is according to your needs which will be specified through the application process. Many centers offer financial assistance and payment plans.
More information
Most of these dogs are at least 6 months old when they start their training sessions. You can also submit your own pet to be trained if they are considered to be eligible after assessment.
Benefits
Among some of the benefits that have been reported are:
- Better management of blood glucose levels
- Less worry regarding hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia episodes
- Better quality of life
- More confident in participation of physical activities
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[expand title=”References“]
Pletcher P. Service dogs that can monitor their owner’s diabetes. Healthline. Accessed 6/13/2017.
Diabetic Alert Dogs of America. Saving Lives. Accessed 6/13/2017.
Diabetes Assist Dogs. Can Do Canines. Accessed 6/13/2017.
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