Lions Assistance Dogs : Our Stories

Read about the life-changing and life-saving stories you are helping to create by providing Diabetic Alert Dogs to Australians in need.

Eliza & Sal

“Sal is my best little friend! I’m always so confident in my diabetes management because I know I have her support. I’m less anxious about hypoglycaemia and know I have a companion to pick me up on the hard days,” says Eliza.

Eliza, our first Diabetic Alert Dog recipient, was matched with Sal in October 2022. A busy Diabetic Nurse, educator, and sports enthusiast, she had dreamed of having a Diabetic Alert Dog since childhood, but the high cost made it seem impossible.

From day one, Sal brought Eliza peace of mind and quickly adapted to her active lifestyle—whether playing cricket, walking in fundraising events, or joining her at work in the Women’s and Children’s Hospital, where Sal also brightens the days of young patients.

Sal detects Eliza’s low blood glucose levels multiple times a day and performs lifesaving tasks: retrieving a hypo kit, getting help, and pressing an emergency button if needed. “She’s picked up on lows when I’ve had no symptoms and before my monitor detected them—giving me time to treat them before they became serious.”

Lions Diabetic Assistance Dogs are provided free of charge thanks to the generosity of Lions and donors. “Knowing this service is free is life-changing for people who couldn’t otherwise afford it,” Eliza says. “Raising money for these dogs changes—and saves—lives.”

Her advice to others living with type 1 diabetes: “Don’t let diabetes define you—you’re stronger because of it.”

Mark & Josie

Diabetic Alert Dog Josie, a beautiful miniature Labradoodle, was placed with her recipient, Mark, in May 2024. Before Josie came into his life, Mark described things as “quiet”—but now his days are filled with affection, activity, and the boundless energy of his newest companion.

Since her arrival, Mark and his wife have embraced a range of new daily routines. They take regular walks together, keeping everyone fit and active, and enjoy plenty of playtime, where Josie’s cheeky personality shines. Training sessions are also part of their everyday life—something the whole family enjoys. Josie especially loves the reward at the end, as pictured here helping Mark pick out her favourite treat.

Living with type 1 diabetes presents daily challenges, but Josie helps Mark manage his condition by alerting him to hypoglycaemic events (low blood glucose levels). She works alongside Mark’s continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to provide an extra layer of safety—sometimes even detecting changes before his monitor does.

For Mark, one of the most valuable parts of having Josie is the companionship she provides. She’s more than a working dog—she’s a trusted friend who brings joy, comfort, and reassurance every single day. It’s no surprise that Josie has also become a favourite among staff and volunteers at Lions Assistance Dogs, winning hearts everywhere she goes.

Owen & Airlie

Diabetic Alert Dog ‘Airlie’ was delivered to her recipient Owen in April of 2024. Airlie marked a significant milestone for the Diabetic Alert Dog program, as she was the first dog delivered interstate and our sixth dog overall delivered to a type 1 diabetic. 

Airlie quickly blended in very nicely with Owen’s family and is the perfect fit as Owen’s Assistance Dog. Airlie also made friends with the family cats and loves to snuggle with them on cold winter nights. Now that Owen has Airlie, he is going on more walks which helps keep his blood glucose levels lower and also helps keep them both fit. 

Airlie provides an extra level of comfort, especially when Owen is home alone. Knowing that Airlie can perform the ‘Emergency Button’ task and alert his Mum is a huge sense of relief for Owen and makes him feel safe. 

Since receiving Airlie, there was one situation where Owen’s Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) was ‘out’ and he was hesitant to give himself extra insulin as he didn’t have his Blood Glucose Level Meter with him. Knowing that his Blood Glucose Levels were high from Airlie's alert, he was able to make necessary adjustments via his sugar sources. 

Airlie is very funny, entertaining as well as high energy which is great for Owen's lifestyle. Her intelligence has given Owen and his family a great sense of security as well as a perfect addition to their family. 

Dandy & The Lions Club of Canberra Lake Tuggeranong 

Each placement of a Lions Assistance Dog is accompanied and supported by a local Lions Club who volunteer to provide hands-on follow-up support that ensures success for both the new recipient and Assistance Dog. Diabetic Alert Dog, Dandy, and his new recipient, were visited by members of the Lions Club of Canberra Lake Tuggeranong three times a week over a period of 12 weeks. During this time, the Lions evaluated Dandy’s tasks, reporting back to Dandy’s trainer at ALHD to ensure his work was well-maintained. The Lions Club has previously been involved in Hearing Assistance Dog placements, but Dandy is their first Diabetic Alert Dog. 

For the club, the most rewarding part of the follow-up process is seeing the bond between Dandy and his recipient blossom. The members of the club have been interested in understanding the process of training a Diabetic Alert Dog. Their favourite part has been watching Dandy perform his tasks that may one day save his recipients life. 

Dandy is an incredibly happy dog and loves other people, but not as much as he loves his recipient. The bond they have has been extremely rewarding for everyone involved and the Lions Club is excited for future opportunities regarding sponsorship and follow-up training for more Assistance Dogs in the near future. 

Taylor & Mimi

Before Mimi, 24-year-old Taylor's life was shaped by constant anxiety, a feeling familiar to many people living with type 1 diabetes. Every day brought uncertainty, never knowing whether the technology she relied on would fail, leaving her vulnerable and afraid. The unpredictability of her condition made it difficult to live with confidence, and she longed for a greater sense of security. That changed when she was matched with Mimi through Lions Assistance Dogs.

Taylor describes the application process as reassuring and well managed. Although she was understandably nervous about meeting Mimi for the first time, Taylor likened the experience to "going on a first date" full of anticipation and uncertainty. It wasn't until they met that she realised a new chapter of her life was beginning.

Taylor describes Mimi as her "best friend," while her family affectionately refers to her as Taylor's "little shadow"—a fitting nickname. As an Assistance Dog, Mimi performs the vital task of alerting Taylor overnight when her blood glucose levels become dangerously high or low, often before Taylor is aware.

Mimi's impact extends far beyond her role as an Assistance Dog. She provides Taylor with greater independence, confidence, and constant companionship. Whether travelling in the car, going for walks, or simply being by her side each day, Mimi ensures Taylor is never alone.

For Taylor, Mimi has done more than transform daily life, she has helped make it safer. The security, reliability, and companionship Mimi provides have replaced fear with confidence, allowing Taylor to embrace each day with greater peace of mind.

Shekia & Yakka

One year after his delivery, Yakka continues to thrive as a Diabetic Alert Dog, making a life-changing difference in Shekia's life. Every day, he performs his role with unwavering enthusiasm, alerting to changes in blood glucose levels before symptoms are even noticed, often before a continuous glucose monitor detects a shift. His remarkable ability provides an invaluable layer of safety, confidence, and peace of mind.

Yakka's support extends well beyond his medical alerts. During periods of anxiety and stress, he has become a constant source of comfort and reassurance. On days when leaving the house feels overwhelming, Yakka gives Shekia the confidence to step outside her comfort zone, transforming everyday life through his calm and dependable presence.

One particularly powerful moment came when Shekia was home alone over Christmas. During the night, Yakka alerted her to a dangerous low blood glucose episode before retrieving her hypo kit when it was needed most. He stayed by her side, continuing to alert as her glucose levels changed, providing reassurance and helping keep her safe. It was a powerful reminder that an Assistance Dog is not only trained to perform lifesaving tasks but is also a constant and caring companion.

The bond between Yakka and Shekia continues to grow. At work, Yakka is focused, reliable, and always ready to perform his role. Out of uniform, he is playful, cheeky, and full of personality, bringing laughter and joy to those around him. Despite his fun-loving nature, Shekia's health and wellbeing always remain his top priority.

Yakka has given Shekia greater independence and confidence, while also providing reassurance to her family and friends, who have witnessed the impact he has made firsthand. He continues to excel as a Medical Assistance Dog and a much-loved member of the family.

Daniel & Zena

Before Zena came into Daniel's life, every day was accompanied by a quiet but constant fear. Living with diabetes meant always being alert, wondering if his blood glucose levels would drop without warning, particularly while he was asleep or alone. The ongoing uncertainty affected his sleep, confidence, and independence, making even everyday activities feel overwhelming at times.

Everything changed when Daniel was matched with Zena. From their very first meeting, he felt an immediate sense of calm and reassurance. Zena's gentle, steady nature made an instant impression, and Daniel knew he had found more than an Assistance Dog, he had found a trusted companion who would help him regain the confidence he had lost.

Zena has transformed Daniel's life through her constant vigilance and unwavering support. She allows him to sleep more soundly, approach each day with greater confidence, and enjoy a renewed sense of independence. One unforgettable moment came when Zena persistently alerted him during the night to a dangerous low blood glucose episode. Daniel had not noticed any symptoms, but Zena refused to stop until he responded, reminding him that her role extends far beyond companionship; she is a lifesaving partner.

Zena's intelligence became clear almost immediately as she settled into Daniel's home and routine. She quickly adapted to her surroundings, often anticipating Daniel's needs and responding to subtle changes before he was even aware of them himself. Whether monitoring him around the house or remaining close throughout the day, Zena performs her role with remarkable instinct and dedication.

Beyond her lifesaving work, Zena has become a much-loved member of Daniel's family. Her affectionate nature, intuition, and ability to provide comfort have brought joy and reassurance to everyone around her. Daniel describes Zena as devoted, intuitive, and life-saving; qualities that have not only transformed his life but also given his family lasting peace of mind.

Ray & Clover

“The bond we have grows stronger day by day. I knew we were about to get an amazing dog, but Clover is so much more. She is a companion who loves to be by my side and has ‘saved my bacon’ by alerting me to changes in my BGL.” — Ray

Ray's life has always been driven by creativity and connection. A former special effects photographer, he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes around eight years ago. Living in the Victorian bush with his partner, Karena, Ray managed his condition using blood glucose testing and a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), but everything changed when Clover, his Diabetic Alert Dog, became part of the family.

Clover has become a trusted partner, often detecting changes in Ray's blood glucose levels before his CGM. Her remarkable sense of smell means she will leave another room to alert him, and Ray has learned to trust her instincts completely. One memorable night, Clover woke Ray with an urgent alert, allowing him to treat a dangerously high blood glucose level before returning safely to bed. There have even been times when Clover's response has helped identify faults with his CGM, reinforcing the trust they have built together.

Beyond her lifesaving alerts, Clover has transformed Ray's daily life. She greets Ray each morning with a wagging tail, encourages him and Karena to get outside, and helps them stay active and connected with their community. Whether on walks or visiting the local oval, Clover creates opportunities for new friendships and conversations while providing constant companionship and reassurance. As Ray explains, "Clover distracts me from smaller problems because diabetes can really get you down."

For Ray, Clover is far more than an Assistance Dog. She is a loyal companion, a lifesaving partner, and a much-loved member of the family. Their relationship is built on trust, companionship, and unwavering support, growing stronger with every day they spend together. As Ray says, "An Assistance Dog is not just a 'tap and go', they are with you for the whole journey."

Learn how these dogs work

Each Medical Assistance Dog costs us approximately $40,000 to raise, train, and deliver. However, they are provided to recipients free of charge thanks to events like Lap the Map.

Learn more