This type of dog is also known as Medical Alert Dog, Medical Service Dog, and Medical Response Dog. This type of service dog is often accompanying persons with respiratory, heart, and neurological problems. As the name suggests, these service dogs have a more general purpose and can be trained to remind people to take their medication, check their heart rate, oxygen saturation levels, and glucose levels. In addition, the General Medical Service Dog is often tasked with carrying a small bag with medication, a card with emergency contacts, medical records and may include a GPS tracking device so the user can be found more easily in case of an emergency.
As mentioned above, Medical Service Dogs can be trained to perform various tasks and the training depends on the needs of the individual user. Most users of a Medical Service Dog like to have them carry a bag with medication, remain at their side in case they lose consciousness, seek help from passersby in case of an emergency, bark on command and help them be more independent.
The General Medical Service Dogs can be amazing companions and go to places with you where pets are not allowed. You should consider acquiring a General Medical Service Dog if you struggle with taking medication on time, experience dizziness during the day, feel isolated, need immediate medical attention when you have an episode or you are prone to losing consciousness. An attentive, dedicated and loving companion like a Medical Service Dog can contribute to your overall quality of life, good mood, keep you physically active and help build better self-esteem.
Your pet dog might be able to become a reliable General Medical Service Dog when properly trained. You should talk to your preferred medical professional about using a service dog. Generally speaking, most dogs that are at least 6-7 months old can become General Medical Service Dogs after they are trained. There are no strict restrictions on the breeds that can become Medical Response Dogs but it is recommended to choose a mid to large-sized breed that is food motivated, can keep their focus, and exhibit good self-control. Breeds we can recommend include Golden Retrievers, Poodles, American Water Spaniels, Border Collies, and German Shepherds.