Using pet care to help manage diabetes in adolescents

Impact of Integrated Pet Care on Glycemic Control and Diabetes Responsibility

['FUNDING_R01'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10975537

This study is looking at how taking care of a pet fish can help kids with type 1 diabetes feel more confident and get their parents more involved in managing their diabetes, by doing things like checking blood sugar and caring for the fish together.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10975537 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how incorporating the care of a pet fish into diabetes management routines can improve self-efficacy and parental involvement in early adolescents with type 1 diabetes. Participants will receive a Betta fish and will be guided to perform blood glucose monitoring and fish care activities together with their parents. The study aims to assess the feasibility and effects of this approach on blood glucose control and adherence to diabetes management tasks. By combining pet care with communication skills training, the research seeks to create a supportive environment for adolescents managing their diabetes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates are early adolescents aged 0-20 years with type 1 diabetes who struggle with self-management and adherence to treatment.

Not a fit: Patients with type 2 diabetes or those who do not have access to a supportive family environment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance diabetes management and improve glycemic control in adolescents through innovative family-based interventions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that family involvement and innovative interventions can positively impact diabetes management, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Brittle Diabetes Mellitus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.