Medical Alert Dogs

Many people don’t know this but there are several different types of service dogs: Severe Allergy Alert Dogs (AADs), Autism Assistance Dogs, Brace/Mobility Support Dogs (BMSD), Diabetic Alert Dogs (DADs), Hearing Dogs, Medical Alert Dogs (MADs), Psychiatric Service Dog (PSDs), Seizure Response Dogs, Visual Assistance Dogs, and Wheelchair Assistance Dogs. All the titles, distinguishing categories and types of Service Dogs have no bearing under federal law — a Service Dog is a Service Dog is a Service Dog. However, the various types of Service Dogs make breaking down the dogs’ functions, jobs and tasks a little easier to understand. Here is a brief overview of MADs:

Medical Alert Dogs (MADs)

Job: To alert their handler to dangerous physiological changes such as blood pressure, hormone levels or another verifiable, measurable bodily symptom.

Handler: May or may not show signs of disability.

Gear: Depending on the handler’s disability, the dog may or may not have specialized gear.

Notes: Medical Alert Dogs’ jobs and functions can vary widely. Also, all DADs are Medical Alert Dogs, but not all Medical Alert Dogs are DADs.

Whether or not a dog is able to sniff out a medical threat in advance, they are trained to respond quickly when they occur. Service dogs can carry out many complex tasks, some of which are enormously beneficial in the immediate aftermath of a heart attack, allergic reaction, or narcoleptic fall. They can use body pressure to alleviate a problem, call for help, aid the person’s balance so they do not fall, and more.

What’s the best way to tell if a dog is a Service Animal and not a pet? Ask! The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) allows for Service Animal owners to be taken at their word and you are limited to only two questions — and only if it isn’t obvious that the animal is a Service Animal. You may not demand proof that the animal has been certified, trained or licensed. Keep in mind that not every disability is apparent.