We all know that a dog’s sense of smell is more keen than a human’s. In fact, according to Dan Warren, a Virginia dog breeder, humans have about 5 million nose receptors, but dogs have about 250 million!
But, did you know that dogs can detect very subtle fluctuations in blood sugar levels? Warren’s company, Diabetic Alert Dogs by Warren Retrievers trains dogs to alert their owner when their blood sugar is dropping, but is still within normal range. Warren is also the Founder, President and CEO of Guardian Angel Service Dogs, the non-profit arm that provides awareness and funding for families to receive a diabetic alert dog.
“They also train dogs to help others with ‘invisible disabilities,’ Warren says, ‘including post-traumatic stress disorder and autism” (salisburypost.com).
Dogs can also be trained to alert their owners of seizures, anxiety, blood pressure and more by barking, pawing and/or licking. Some dogs even know how to dial 9-1-1.
ARTICLE RESOURCES
Diabetic alert dogs can sniff out health problems. Katie Scarvey. salisburypost.com. Lifestyle. February 19, 2012.
Diabetic Alert Dogs by Warren Retrievers
Photo Copyright Diabetic Alert Dogs by Warren Retrievers
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