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Helper dogs have been trained to assist people with a variety of disabilities. Some dogs help people with epilepsy. Others can be useful for those with visual impairment or physical limitations. Now, British researchers are training dogs to detect hypoglycemia in people with diabetes. When someone's blood sugar falls too low they can go into shock. The dogs are trained to detect subtle changes in scent when someone with diabetes begins to experience very low blood sugar levels. The dogs alert the person so that action can be taken to avoid this potentially life-threatening episode.
This isn't so new. I knew a woman in Texas 4 years ago who had a helper dog to warn her when her blood sugar reached dangerous levels. The dog would go get a bag with a tester kit and insulin syringe! It was amazing to watch an apparently sleeping animal get up and go get the ziplock bag. She was on duty even when napping!
I was wondering where I can get a dog like this. My 1 year old was diagnosed type 1 diabetic 3 wks ago and would like any help in detecting low bs since she is unable to tell us herself. Any informatoin would help. Thanks!
Danielle, if you find such a dog, please let me know. I am a severe diabetic myself, and sugar is so very bad. Dr. told me to look for a diabetic dog. No luck this far. Thanks,
Geena
http://www.dogs4diabetics.com/index.html
To Geena and Danielle,
A quick search brought up the website above.
Good Luck
Russ