Q: How does an allergy alert dog protect my child in new environments?
A: Upon receiving the "seek" command, they search the immediate area and alert if the offending allergen is present.
Q: Can the dog protect my child at school?
A: Yes. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 require that schoolsaccommodatestudents with service dogs.
Q: How do I apply?
A: Submit a written application, with references
Q: Who is it for?
A: Kiwanis is a child oriented Service Club, so we focus on Children, 6 to 12 Years old with severe allergies or Type 1 Diabetes
Q:What is the cost for a participating family?
A:The Club pays for the dog, dog food and basic Veterinarian costs. The participant pays for dog toys, kennel, leash, collar, and special vet services up to $500. Typical family cost for the 2 year program is less than $1,000.
Q: Does it matter if the child fears or dislikes dogs?
A: Proceed with caution! A close emotional bond with the child is critical to reliable bonding. Starting with a puppy helps
Alert Dogs for Diabetic, and Extremely Allergic Kids
Foothills Kiwanis Club,
Boulder, CO
Q: Do our dogs shed?
A: Unfortunately, yes. We choose Golden Retrievers because of their intelligence and temperament with children. Put your black clothes in the closet for two years :-)
Q: Will this service be available in my area?
A: It is our hope to see this project started in many cities throughout the country. This process is just starting, so be patient and visit our "Expanding" Page periodically for updates.
Q: What are the recipient family's responsibilities?
A: Attend classes to learn how to train the puppy to be an alert dog for their child. See information packets.
Q: How long does the training take?
A: Two years. The dog will likely be alerting for the child in one year, or less. However, dogs do not mature emotionally until they are two years old. So public access skills are taught until they mature.
Answers: Courtesy of
Our Professor
Q: How is your project funded?
A: Club fund raising projects and business sponsors.
Q: What geographical area does the project serve?
A: To minimize travel time & costs to bi-monthly training classes, we urge that only families living within 30 miles of Boulder, CO join our Academy.
Q: How does the dog alert?
A: We try to customize to family's desires (nudge, speak, stare, etc.). Sit and woof is popular.
Some Common Questions About Our Project
Q:What services do the dogs provide?
A:They provide an alert to the child, or parent, when detecting dangerous allergens or hypoglycemia. They locate misplaced medicinal pouches They bark for help if the child is in distress They provide constant protection and companionship.
Q: Can the dog alert to both hypo and hyper glycemic?
A: Initial training in the Academy is focused on hypoglycemic detection. However, bonded dogs often spontaneously alert to hyperglycemia as well
Alert Service Dogs for Kids