Service dog group marks 10 years of life-saving interventions for diabetics
CONCORD, CA – Staff, friends, clients – and their dogs – celebrated the 10th anniversary of Early Alert Canines (EAC) at a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce on Aug. 27.
EAC’s mission is to improve the health, safety and well-being of insulin-dependent diabetics through partnerships with certified low blood sugar alert dogs. Timely treatment of low glucose episodes not only enhances safety but also improves overall blood glucose control.
Founded by Carol Edwards, EAC has placed 68 dogs throughout California, Washington, Oregon, and Nevada. About half went to children under 18.
The group trains two classes of diabetic alert dogs. They train full-access service dogs and skilled companion dogs. Specializing in the unique human component, they educate, train, and provide long-term support for the dogs and the people who partner with them.
EAC has a dedicated staff and more than 75 volunteers who offer administrative support, foster homes, grooming, exercise, transportation and daily feedings.
“This milestone is quite emotional for many reasons,” Edwards said. “Thanks to the bravery of our clients, the loving care of our dogs and the generosity of our donors and partners, we continue to transform the quality of life for our clients and, in many cases, save their lives.”
Working together
EAC works in partnership with Canine Companions and Guide Dogs for the Blind. The group is also an accredited member of Assistance Dogs International.
They train the dogs to recognize the biochemical scent that the body emits as blood glucose levels begin to change. EAC dogs will even wake their diabetic partners in the middle of the night.
An early alert is a significant relief to diabetics and parents of diabetics, who often struggle to identify such changes before they result in uncomfortable symptoms and eventual debilitation. It is an invaluable tool in a diabetic’s effort to achieve and obtain optimal blood sugar levels and, in many cases, serves as a life-saving warning.
“The Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce is happy to celebrate a milestone anniversary of 10 years for Early Alert Canines,” said Melissa Rea, director of operations & marketing. “Concord is home to many established and productive organizations, and it is great knowing we have one in our backyard that helps improve the health and wellness of those who are insulin-dependent.”
At the gathering, EAC also received recognition from state Sen. Steve Glazer, Contra Costa County Supervisor Karen Mitchoff and the city of Concord.
Edwards is grateful that the organization persisted during the COVID-19 pandemic. “We look to the future with a renewed sense of hope and enthusiasm,” she said.
“Now, more than ever, we are focused on educating the community about our mission, inviting them to become advocates and grow support for our organization,” she added. “EAC relies upon the generosity of our donors and volunteers. We know that when we partner with one another, we make the world a better place.”
For more information, visit earlyalertcanines.org or find EAC through Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.