News

Best Friend

Nov, 2008

WINSTON IS MORE THAN KAYLENE'S BEST FRIEND

Winston the Whippet is more than man's best friend for Osborne Park resident Kaylene Burnell, he's a life saver.

Mrs Burnell has lived with type one diabetes for the past 26 years, which means her body does not produce insulin and part of her condition means she cannot tell if her blood sugar levels are at dangerous levels.

This can result in seizures, coma or death if not detected, and once meant she had to test her blood sugar levels hourly.

This is where young Winston, a specially trained Paws for Diabetics Medical Alert Assistance Dog steps in.

By shaking, crying, licking or nipping at Mrs Burnell's hand or fingers he alerts her that she needs to check her blood sugar levels.

He has only been part of the family since September 5, he has well and truly earned his place.

"He takes the stress away," Mrs Burnell said. "He's more than a pet.....without him I'd basically be dead."

As Winston is scent- trained he not allowed to be patted and he can be identified as a working dog, under the same guide-lines as a guide dog, by his green jacket.

For more information about Paws for Diabetics Medical Alert Assistance dogs visit www.pfd.org.au

Nikki Hutchinson

Source: Stirling Times

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