Monday, March 25, 2013

Seizure Alert Dogs Give Early Warning Signs To Sufferers

By Ann Jordan


During the past twenty years, there have been new developments have occurred in service animals. Seizure alert dogs can provide epileptics of an oncoming attach minutes or even hours before they occur. This allows the individual to take medication to block an episode, move to a safe place or call for help.

The exact mechanism used by these service animals to detect an episode is unknown. Researchers and trainers believe there may be specific scents or behavioral changes the animal notes. However, no conclusive studies have been completed to prove these theories. Additionally, the ability seems to cross lines of age, gender and breed.

The ability appears to be something certain canines are born with and currently cannot be taught. However, when detected, the animal may be taught an appropriate response. This sets these special canines apart from others that are trained to provide assistance to individuals with special health needs.

A dog that is trained for this particular purpose may be recruited from one of several locations. Some come from shelters or breeders. Others might have formerly been a pet. Once the ability is discovered in the animal, it is sent to training. Training includes staying with the individual or pushing a button on a telephone that automatically dials 911 for help. This alerts the emergency response system and medical assistance is sent to the home to provide the needed help.

Epilepsy is a condition affecting more than two million Americans. The length of an attack may range from a few seconds to several minutes. Victims may lose consciousness. Some start to avoid normal life activities due to the consequences of being unconscious in public. They may have become victims of crime while unable to defend themselves. The service animal provides the assistance needed to live a normal life. Individuals have returned to the workplace or started running errands again with the help of a dog.

While some of the animals warn their owners 100% of the times they are about to experience an episode, all do not. Still the dog will generally remain with the individual, providing comfort and protection during the episode. Some may lie down beside the master while others will lick their faces until the episode ends. Trainers generally do not guarantee there will be a warning from the dog. As a result they are generally described as assistance animals.

In the USA, the Medicaid program in Montana is the only one that pays the cost of a service animal. However, some training organizations provide them for free or provide financial assistance to those with needs. This can help to set off the cost the several thousand dollars required for training. Requirements include the ability and willingness of the applicant to provide care and follow-up training.

Seizure alert dogs can be a vital part of the life of individuals suffering from conditions leading to seizures. Animals with the innate ability provide valuable assistance to these individuals by predicting episodes. The may provide comfort, protection or call for help.




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