Author: Hailey VanderWilt, Communications Coordinator
For nearly five decades, Paws With A Cause (PAWS) has been transforming lives and strengthening communities through partnerships with custom-trained working dogs. That longevity reflects expertise, thoughtful program development, and a commitment to training dogs who are reliable partners in real-world environments.
Building on our strong foundation, PAWS is proud to introduce a new type of placement: Medical Alert Dogs.
This program expands our work into specialized medical scent detection, preparing PAWS dogs to recognize subtle changes in scent and provide early alerts that can improve safety, stability, and daily confidence.
What Is a Medical Alert Dog? 
A medical alert dog is a specially trained assistance dog who detects subtle changes in their handler, detecting dangerous health shifts before symptoms occur.
Using their highly developed sense of smell, these dogs are trained to recognize specific scent changes associated with certain medical conditions and respond with a clear, reliable alert behavior.
What Can a Medical Alert Dog Alert To?
At PAWS, medical alert dogs are currently placed in two specialized areas:
Diabetic Alert Dogs – Paired with individuals living with type 1 diabetes, these dogs are trained to alert to significant changes in blood glucose levels. That early notification can allow their partner to check levels and respond before a situation becomes dangerous.
POTS Alert Dogs – Paired with individuals living with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), these dogs are trained to alert to changes in heart rate that may precede dizziness, fainting, or instability.
Depending on the individual’s needs, these dogs may also be trained to retrieve emergency supplies, bring a phone, or provide bracing support after a fall.
Each placement is highly individualized, with training tailored to the medical history, environment, and daily routine of the person the dog will serve.
A Space Built for Scent Training 
This dog placement type was made possible in part by recent updates to our training facility, including the addition of a dedicated scent room designed specifically for medical alert work.
This controlled space allows our trainers to carefully develop medical scent detection skills with the precision and consistency this specialized work demands. It represents not just a new room—but a new chapter in PAWS training capabilities.
How Medical Alert Dogs Change Lives
Living with a medical condition that can shift without warning can impact daily routines, independence, and confidence. A medical alert dog offers reassurance that reactive medical equipment cannot.
With an early alert, a person may have time to sit down safely, check their levels, take medication, or seek help before symptoms escalate. That advance notice can prevent injuries, reduce anxiety, and restore a sense of control.
This means going to work, attending school, traveling, or simply moving through daily life with greater safety and confidence.
Applications Open January–March 
Applications for PAWS assistance dogs are open January through March each year. We encourage individuals who are interested to learn more by visiting pawswithacause.org/medical-alert-dogs/.
Want to Help?
Every PAWS assistance dog begins as a puppy.
Volunteer puppy raisers play a critical role in preparing these future partners for advanced training. By opening your home to a puppy, you could help shape a dog who one day provides lifesaving alerts and renewed independence.
Raise a puppy, change a life.
