Diabetes can be an overwhelming diagnosis. The whole change in routine and having to adapt to new lifestyle changes can be exasperating. Those with pets may even say, “Perhaps it is time to simplify life. I don’t need a pet!” Before you start planning to give up your pet for adoption just because of the increased responsibilities they may garner, think again!
There have been many instances of how pets helped diabetics through their diagnosis and lifestyle changes. For example, dogs can be exercise motivators and a supporter all throughout your walks and jogs. You will be eternally grateful for having him / her as your faithful companion. This is important as both dogs and cats require exercise to stay healthy. By feeling obligated to ensure your pet gets the exercise required, you too will have no choice but to follow along.
Pets can also help with loneliness and provide unconditional love. They can be that special friend who is always there to listen to you. Individuals with pets have lower amounts of stress and tend to recover faster from stressful situations compared to those without pets. This is a crucial factor as stress increases the levels of blood glucose.
In recent years, it has also been shown that some animals can sense blood sugar levels that are too low. They have been many reports that pets act differently when their owners are hypoglycemia. There are also specially trained alert dogs that help with the management of diabetes.
Diabetic Assist Dogs are trained since young to monitor a specific scent on a person produced when there is low blood glucose. They will alert their owner, prompting them to check their blood glucose level. The diabetic should, therefore, get something to eat to prevent going into a hypoglycemic episode. These trained canines can even retrieve food or drinks, get an emergency phone, or gather help from surrounding individuals.
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Scott JA. Pet therapy for diabetes: how your dog or cat can help you stay healthy. Everyday Health. Accessed 6/13/2017
Diabetes Assist Dogs. Can Do Canines. Accessed 6/13/2017.
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