Seizure alert

About this task

Dog detects an impending seizure and alerts the handler before it occurs.

How it helps: Provides advance warning of a seizure, allowing the handler to get to a safe position.

Required foundation skills

Solid foundation obedience. Alert behavior.

Training steps

1. Note: Seizure alerting often develops naturally in dogs who live with someone who has seizures
2. Observe whether dog already shows pre-seizure behavior and capture it
3. Work with a trainer experienced in medical alert dogs
4. Teach a reliable alert behavior
5. Reward any spontaneous pre-seizure alerting immediately and consistently
6. Track and document accuracy carefully

Proofing criteria

Once your dog reliably performs this task at home, proof it in these environments and situations:

1. Alerts consistently before seizure onset
2. Alert occurs with enough lead time for handler to prepare
3. Alert is clear and unmistakable to handler
4. Does not false alert frequently
5. Accuracy documented over minimum 6 months