The story of a boy living with Type 1 and his family's journey to raise and train a diabetic alert dog.

Wednesday, February 6, 2013

Bo's First Alert

Bo had his first alert on Austin this evening and it was the most amazing sight to see; one that will be etched in my memory forever. I had a feeling we were on the cusp of his first alert because of how well he was doing alerting on hidden low scent samples. Earlier in the week, I told Austin we just needed the opportunity for him to experience a real time low in his training range of 70-80. Tonight that opportunity presented itself!

When Austin got home from basketball practice his blood sugar was 72. I suggested he sit on the floor and see if Bo showed any signs of smelling his low. Show signs did he ever! Bo immediately recognized the low scent and showed signs of excitement. He started sniffing vigorously (just like he responds during scent training) and after only seconds he raised his right paw and paw swiped Austin's leg. It was perfect and incredibly emotional. I hugged Austin and squeezed him, and hugged him some more, and we treated Bo with a jackpot of treats. Austin was calm in comparison to me. I got so wrapped up in the moment, Austin had to ask me to get his juice box. It was a glorious moment and one I wish I could have captured on video but I suppose there is something special in it being witnessed only by the three of us.

We still have a lot of work ahead of us with Bo's training, however his alert tonight is a huge milestone in our journey.

7 comments:

  1. My heart is happpy happy happy...YAY BO!!!
    Syl

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  2. Awesome!,,,,,,I know exactly how you feel. We had our first alert about a week ago and it is hard to put the emotions into words.

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  3. wow got goose bumps that is increadable!!!

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  4. Oh that is wonderful! I am following your blog because my daughter was diagnosed in November. Thank you for blogging the process.

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  5. Jessica,

    I am so sorry your daughter was recently diagnosed with Type 1. You don't know me but I know how your world has been turned upside down by her diagnosis. As a mom who experienced the same diagnosis, I can reassure you that your daughter is going to be okay. In fact, she is going to be a stronger more mature and empathetic child because of the experience she has living with Type 1.

    Though you may not think so today, you too are going to be okay. Your grief over the loss of your "healthy" child will subside; your feelins of fear and anxiety will be replaced with confidence; and your guilt will be reconciled.

    In fact one day you will discover a gem that is only revealed because of this experience that today fills you with raw emotion. It will likely take months, maybe even years but it will happen and when it does you will accept why your child was allowed, by a loving God, to live with Type 1.

    Stay strong.

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  6. I can't tell you how many times we've been wrapped up in treating the dog, getting a scent sample, and all the other things, that my daughter has had to ask if she could have a juice box. :-)

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