Service Dog Separated from Boy, 5, Alerts Mom About His Low Blood Sugar
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In an exclusive account reported by Tereza Shkurtaj, a North Carolina mother shares a heartwarming story of how her son’s service dog, Ducky, alerted her about his dangerously low blood sugar levels. This extraordinary incident showcases the unbreakable bond between a young boy with Type 1 Diabetes and his loyal companion.
A routine preschool pickup turned into a remarkable moment when Aubrie Lewis observed Ducky, the family’s 2-year-old English cocker spaniel and diabetic alert dog, displaying unusual behaviour. Despite her son, Wells, not being in the car, Ducky began to focus his attention intently on Lewis, prompting her to check Wells’ glucose levels. To her surprise, she discovered that his blood sugar had dropped to 84.
Even though Ducky is trained to alert when Wells’ blood sugar fluctuates outside the safe range, Lewis was initially sceptical of the dog’s ability to detect such changes while waiting in the car. Nevertheless, Ducky’s actions spoke louder than words when he climbed onto the front seat and provided a clear alert, signalling the imminent danger.
Lewis recounts this as the most astonishing moment she has experienced with Ducky, highlighting the incredible bond between service dog and child. Despite being separated by walls and a considerable distance, Ducky’s acute sense of smell allowed him to detect Wells’ low blood sugar and alert his mother promptly.
Since being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of three, Wells has relied on a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to track his blood sugar levels. However, due to the monitor’s occasional inaccuracies and delays, Ducky has proven to be an invaluable addition to the family’s safety measures. Through fundraising efforts, Ducky was trained by the non-profit organisation, M.D. Dogs, and has since become an indispensable part of Wells’ life.
While Wells is unable to bring Ducky to school, the service dog accompanies him almost everywhere else, providing not only physical safety but also emotional support. According to Lewis, the financial commitment and responsibility of having a service dog are significant, but the peace of mind and companionship they offer far outweigh the challenges.
In a world where families of Type 1 diabetic children constantly face uncertainties and fears, having a reliable and intuitive companion like Ducky has proven to be life-changing. The unwavering bond between Wells and his service dog serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the incredible ways in which animals can make a difference in people’s lives.
Lewis’ story is a testament to the profound impact that service animals can have on individuals with medical conditions, providing not only a sense of security but also companionship and unconditional love. As we celebrate the remarkable bond between Wells and Ducky, let us be reminded of the extraordinary ways in which animals enrich our lives and make the world a brighter place.