Diabetes alert dogs are a relatively new type of assistance dog, trained to alert people with diabetes to rising or falling blood glucose levels before blood sugars reach dangerous levels.  This can be life-saving, especially for diabetics who no longer feel the symptoms when their blood glucose levels drop, which can quickly lead to mental impairment, coma, and even death. A constant companion supporting this critical awareness can help in a truly exceptional way.

At ADW, we have been learning about and training diabetes alert dogs for the past four years.The placement of diabetes alert dogs and training of clients who use them, is rigorous and personal.  Clients meet with ADW staff weekly during the placement process over a period of 9-12 months. This limits our geography of service for this particular type of assistance dog.

Through daily practice with our clients and dogs, and through hosting our annual Diabetes Alert Dog Training workshop, ADW trainers are constant students.  Our education programs allow all trainers, ADW and visitors, to share information, best practices and experience while they advance learning in this area.

This fund in the memory of Virginia Fields has been established to develop additional qualified diabetes alert dog trainers in the Southern California area.  Certified dog trainers working at non-profit assistance dog programs in Southern California may apply for and receive scholarships to attend advanced training workshops with ADW in this area of specialization.

Honoring Virginia through this form of memorial is a wonderful gift that will provide benefit to a broad audience and geography, mirroring her life’s reach and intention.