Diabetic Alert Dog

A diabetic alert dog offers our clients a reassuring sense of security. They provide an extra layer of safety, trained to detect both high and low blood sugar levels specific to each individual. Using scent samples collected from our clients, we train our dogs to recognize and alert to the unique scent changes associated with hypoglycemic events. By the time of delivery, your dog will already be familiar with the scent cues of your body.

Our training encompasses various environments, venues, and scenarios to enhance the dog's alert capabilities. This includes training for in-house alerts, public places, car rides, and nighttime alerts. We utilize a thorough application process to tailor the dog's training to your specific needs. For clients who experience hypoglycemic events at certain times or in particular situations, we adjust the training regimen accordingly to ensure the dog's responsiveness.

Our goal is to provide you with a diabetic alert dog that not only alerts you effectively but also integrates seamlessly into your daily life, offering peace of mind and enhancing your overall quality of life.

The initial stage in our program involves our dogs going through a comprehensive puppy raising program. We assess them biweekly to determine which program suits them best. Our trainers handpick each dog and conduct temperament tests tailored for each specific program. Once they complete the puppy raising phase, we begin their training in obedience. 

Training takes place both at our facility and in our trainers' homes, allowing the dogs to acclimate to a family environment. This approach ensures a smoother transition into their new homes. Obedience training forms the foundation of our program, and dogs must pass our standard obedience test to progress to the next phase. Tests are conducted on- and off-leash in environments with varying levels of distraction.

The second step is public access. We begin by reinforcing all obedience training in a low-distraction environment, such as a store when its not too busy. We gradually work our way up to higher distraction environments such as busy shopping centers, restaurants and office buildings. Once we have good, consistent obedience in high-distraction environments, we throw in some of our own distractions to test the dog’s ability to successfully handle them. We train the dog around your daily routines—for example, if your child rides the bus to school, we'll train the dog on our city's public transportation. While in training we also bring our dog around in different transportation, such as vehicles, buses, commercial airlines, and elevators. Before moving on to the last step, they are tested in public access, making sure they are ready for the final step in training. 

The last phase centers on scent and alert training. Dogs are trained to detect and alert to impending low or high blood sugar events. We emphasize positive reinforcement for accurate alerts while minimizing false alarms. They are trained to alert for levels below 80 and above 150.

Once dogs exhibit active alerts, we return to public access training to refine their alerting skills in different environments. Nighttime alerts are a crucial part of this phase, where dogs are taught to wake clients by jumping on their beds during critical blood sugar changes. Dogs must pass a comprehensive scent and alert test demonstrating their ability to alert effectively in various scenarios.

It's important to note that we customize our training using specific scent samples provided by the diabetic. We send out a scent sample kit for completion and return before beginning scent and alert training.

At Loyalty Service Dogs, our structured approach ensures that each dog is thoroughly prepared to provide invaluable support, tailored to the unique needs of our clients.

• Be diagnosed for a minimum of a year.
• Be 6 years of age
• Be able to financially provide for the dog's healthcare, hygiene, food etc..
• Type 1 or type 2 insulin dependent 
• None smoker 
• Show kindness to dogs

Please note that our service dogs are offered at cost and are not covered by health insurance. The total cost varies based on factors such as specific training needs, delivery location, pick-up or delivery options, and breed selection. To receive an accurate quote, we require a completed application. Our autism service dog program starts at $27,000, and we provide various payment plans along with the option for pickup or delivery. Click on the cost link for more information.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about our program. At Loyalty Service Dogs, we strive to ensure that you have a thorough understanding of the process of obtaining a service dog. We are committed to establishing strong relationships with each client we assist. To begin your journey in acquiring a service dog, please complete our online application. We look forward to working with you!