Dogs can detect health complications before they worsen
For thousands of years dogs have been in the lives of humans. The perfect companion, come rain or shine – dogs are the most favoured pet out of any other animal. Aside from canines being ideal for keeping us company, they are now being noticed for a multitude of other skills that could potentially save lives.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease that affects more than 2.9 million people in the UK, with estimates stating that by the year 2025, more than five million people could suffer from the illness. People who deal with type 1 diabetes on a daily basis are at risk of death if their blood sugar decreases. Dogs are able to alert an owner about this through alterations in body odour, so that the appropriate action can be taken.
Autism
Aggressive behaviour caused by autism can be reduced dramatically if the person with the problem owns a dog. It has been proven that the companionship and comfort provided by a dog can reduce the symptoms of autism in as little as a month. Dogs for the Disabled are an organisation currently helping dogs and owners to work together for the sake of an illness.
Narcolepsy
Aside from diabetes and autism, dogs can assist with epilepsy, dementia and narcolepsy. Narcolepsy causes an individual to fall asleep at regular intervals throughout the day. With the help of a dog, the owner can be woken up or the body scent can be noticed to predict a sleeping fit.
Epilepsy
Chemical changes associated with epilepsy will indicate that a seizure is about to occur and when a dog distinguishes these changes, medication can be taken. With canines also being able to help reduce pain through their hot body temperatures, it is obvious that these animals are worthwhile as a pet in more ways than one.
