This month in training: September 2021
Posted by Matt Sadler
From puppies at the start of their training, to very clever dogs reaching important milestones - it has been a busy few weeks for our hearing dogs in training. Find out what they have been up to.
1. Say hello to Izzy
Miniature Poodle Izzy has just started her training to become a life-changing hearing dog.
The early part of Izzy's training will see her being encouraged to investigate lots of new objects and she will also focus on learning her basic cues, like this lovely sit.
Have lots of fun Izzy.
2. Freya has been mastering her 'sit' and 'wait'
Now this is impressive for a pup at the very start of their training! This is the wonderful Freya doing a great job practising her 'sit' and 'wait'.
These basic cues will be vital throughout Freya's training and when she grows into a life-changing hearing dog.
3. Nelson has been making friends with Teddy the cat
Miniature Poodle Nelson has been making friends with four-month-old Teddy. The duo often play all day together, but this was the first time that Nelson and Teddy had fallen asleep cuddled up next to each other.
Some hearing dogs are matched to deaf people who have pet cats, so it's important that our pups are comfortable and relaxed around them.
Biscuit was an absolute star on his first train journey and that happy face tells us he enjoyed every second.
Biscuit had previously been to a station to get used to the new sights and sounds, and he has taken the whole experience in his stride.
We are so proud of you Biscuit!
5. Cain has been learning how to alert to a danger sound
Cain was all smiles after a great soundwork lesson where he practised alerting to the smoke alarm.
Our dogs alert to most sounds by leading their partner to the source. However, the danger signal sees Cain lie down instead, so he doesn't take his partner into a potentially hazardous situation.
Clever Caspar showed off his wonderful settle during a shopping trip.
Hearing dogs accompany a deaf person in lots of public places – including busy and interesting venues like garden centres, shops and markets. Our dogs need to understand all the things on display are not for them, and they should be on their best behaviour regardless of all the distractions.
Caspar is celebrating reaching a milestone in his hearing dog training as he has just progressed to the final stage.
George has been getting used to mobility scooters in case his future deaf partner uses one.
After investigating the new object, George knew there was nothing to be wary of and he is already very relaxed and happy around it.
8. Riley has passed her final assessment!
Cocker Spaniel Riley is going to be a life-changing hearing dog after passing her final assessment with flying colours!
Riley has grown into the most wonderful girl and is a real credit to the fab team she has had behind her every step of the way.
The next step for Riley is to meet her deaf partner for the first time.
Sponsor a puppy and change a deaf person's life
These cute puppies are training to become life-changers. Sponsor them from £5 a month and follow their journey as they learn how to help a deaf person.
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