What is Hearing Dogs for Deaf People?
Hearing Dogs for Deaf People is a national charity that trains dogs to alert deaf people to important and lifesaving sounds they would otherwise miss – sounds that many people take for granted, like the doorbell, alarm clock and even danger signals such as the fire alarm. Being aware of these, thanks to a hearing dog, makes a real difference to deaf people’s lives and can even save them.
Just as importantly, the charity’s clever canines help people to leave loneliness behind and reconnect with life. Deafness can be a very isolating disability – hearing loss detaches people from interactions, and it can make it difficult to communicate. A hearing dog provides love, companionship and emotional support. With a loyal companion and true friend by their side, it can give a deaf person the confidence to reconnect with friends, family, their community and the world around them.
Can any breed be a Hearing Dog?
Hearing Dogs for Deaf People trains Cocker Spaniels, Labradors, Cockapoos and Miniature Poodles to become life-changing hearing dogs, as they have all the traits that make for fantastic hearing dogs – they are friendly, affectionate, energetic, keen to learn, and love being around people.
A lot goes into training these puppies and the charity has its incredible family of over 3,000 volunteers to thank for making this possible. Many of these amazing volunteers care for dogs-in-training from their homes. There are plenty of volunteering opportunities up and down the country, so dog lovers are encouraged to visit the Hearing Dogs for Deaf People website to find out more.
https://www.hearingdogs.org.uk/support/
How can I support hearing dogs for deaf people?
There are numerous ways people can support the charity, such as taking part in a fundraiser or challenge, or sponsoring an adorable hearing dog puppy who will become a deaf person’s best friend and ears. When you sponsor a puppy, you’ll receive a fantastic welcome pack and regular ‘pupdates’ about your puppy’s training!
Hearing Dogs for Deaf People rely on the generosity of kind supporters to fund the training and support of their 1,000 hearing dog partnerships, and to provide personalised services to help anyone with any level of hearing loss.