Diabetic Alert Dog Saves Girl’s Life with Early Detection

A young girl’s diabetic alert dog has proven to be a life-saving companion, detecting dangerous blood sugar changes before medical devices can respond. Kennedy Berce, a seven-year-old from Perrysburg, Ohio, relies on her dog, Kona, to monitor her health since her diagnosis with Type 1 Diabetes on September 11, 2024.

Kennedy was critically close to serious health complications when her blood sugar levels soared to 611, just 24 hours away from slipping into diabetic ketoacidosis. Her mother, Lindsey Berce, recounts the harrowing experience of multiple doctor visits that failed to diagnose her daughter’s condition until her husband insisted they return to the hospital.

The Berce family has since adapted to a life centered on meticulous blood sugar monitoring, utilizing insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). Yet, they credit Kona, initially brought home as a family pet in May 2024, as their most invaluable tool.

Kona’s Training and Unique Abilities

Kona underwent extensive scent-detection training, learning to identify specific chemical changes in Kennedy’s body that signal blood sugar fluctuations. While the CGM provides critical data, it reads interstitial fluid and can lag behind actual blood sugar levels by approximately 15 minutes. In contrast, Kona has demonstrated the ability to detect changes up to 30 minutes before the CGM registers a problem.

Lindsey emphasizes, “While the CGM and insulin pump are incredible tools, Kona’s nose is often faster. That early warning gives me time to treat Kennedy and adjust her pump settings if needed.” Kennedy’s symptoms, which included excessive thirst, fatigue, and weight loss, have made Kona’s alerts essential for her well-being.

Kona’s training involved using samples of Kennedy’s saliva taken during both low (below 75) and high (above 145) blood sugar episodes. This tailored approach allowed Kona to become attuned to Kennedy’s unique scent profile, which has been crucial given the timing of his arrival in the Berce household.

A Lifesaving Partnership

The bond between Kennedy and Kona has evolved into a powerful partnership. Kona alerts by gently placing a paw on either Kennedy or Lindsey when blood sugar levels drop or rise beyond the critical thresholds. Early signs of stress in Kona, such as pacing or locking eyes, indicate that he senses an impending change in Kennedy’s condition.

Lindsey shared, “The moment Kona locked eyes with me, I knew he was alerting. Sure enough, when I checked the final time, Kennedy’s blood sugar was low.” This dynamic creates an emotional whirlwind for the family—relief, gratitude, and fear all at once as they navigate Kennedy’s health challenges.

Kona’s alerts can occur between one and five times daily, often catching drops in blood sugar before Kennedy feels any symptoms. Lindsey states, “Most of the time I have to remind myself: the nose always knows! Almost every time, he detects it before Kennedy shows any signs.”

Kona’s role has expanded beyond just alerting for Kennedy. He also recognizes changes in blood sugar levels in strangers, although he can only receive rewards for assisting Kennedy. The family expresses gratitude for Kona’s instincts, as they provide an extra layer of protection in their daily lives filled with medical monitoring and care.

As the Berce family continues to adapt to life with Type 1 Diabetes, Kona remains a steadfast companion, embodying both a guardian and a partner in their journey. His presence underscores the profound impact that trained service animals can have on the health and safety of those they serve.