A lifesaving pal

A chance sighting of a dog wearing a Diabetes Alert Assistance Dog jacket at a theme park back in 2018 quickly led to Louis contacting Medical Detection Dogs (MDD). He had been struggling for years to control his sugar levels as none of the available technology was effective. This meant Louis either had dangerously high blood glucose levels or when attempting to keep his levels within normal range he would have a hypo and possibly lose consciousness.

‘I have been admitted to hospital due to my diabetes quite a number of times’ says Louis. ‘I felt uncomfortable going out because of my lack of awareness. My anxiety meant I had my sugar levels high to avoid passing out and it was always a worry.’

However, Ernie a five year old yellow Labrador has improved things dramatically. ‘I have not had a single hospital admission since our partnership began and my overall long term glucose levels are the best they have ever been,’ adds Louis. ‘Ernie alerts me to both high and low levels which helps me to keep within a reasonable range. I can take appropriate action without worrying if I’ve done enough or too much. He’ll let me know if I need to make any corrections to my medication.’

Louis, a father with two young children, admits there have been challenges along the way, not least being the fact that Ernie is “the world’s hungriest Labrador”, but says ‘the benefits of having such a lifesaving pal are worth it.

I’m so glad I reached out to MDD when I did. I now feel much better knowing that Ernie monitors my health 24/7 and it’s a big relief to all my family too. He is amazing.’

Louis added that ‘he is very grateful to both God and the MDD team for their work and providing Ernie.’