Libby likes traffic lights

It's time for another update on what Libby's been up to!

Firstly, it seems she's learning about traffic lights...

Not a problem for Libby. She's patient. She knows that, if she waits for the green light, she'll get a treat and a fuss! (Don't worry, we're not really training her to obey traffic lights - we just love this photo!)

How about something a bit more human? Libby's Volunteer Dog Trainer Mary explains what's going on below: "This is my husband's podiatrist. I asked if was ok to bring Libby in, and and he was very happy to have her in the room. Libby was so good sitting by the chair until he had finished, and then he asked if he could give her a cuddle."

That's one happy podiatrist! Puppies must make a welcome break from feet. Mary continues: "Every time after that, when we went to the health centre, if he saw us he would come out and say hello to us but it was to see Libby really."

Meanwhile, at the traffic lights, things are happening...

Anyway, back to the humans - and here are two small ones with Libby. They're Mary's grandchildren, Felicity and Amber, who love having Libby around. Libby loves having them around too!

Meanwhile, back at the traffic lights, we're on the move...

... or maybe not.

How about another small human?

Mary explains: "Felicity is the one who plays the trumpet. Libby was ok until Felicity blew the trumpet and then she made a dash for it. She gradually came back with the encouragement of some high-value treats and sat at Felicity's feet, but not right by the trumpet. I think it was a bit loud for Libby and also the rest of us!"

This is a great example of Libby learning. Sometimes our puppies can be startled by something, for example a lorry going past or a lift door opening. It's all part of life. The important thing is however, how our volunteers and trainers handle this. They're extremely attentive, and make sure the puppy isn't too upset. Then, they gently coax it back, with lots of treats and praise, until the puppy is happy that the truck isn't after them, that the doors won't close on them - or, indeed, that the trumpet won't hurt them. This is how our puppies grow in confidence and learn about the world around them.

How are things at the traffic lights...?

Not looking great. Libby might have missed her chance there.

Finally, a wonderful photo of Libby taking on volunteer fundraising duties!

How could you resist? It's in the eyes, the ears, the tail. Our amazing hearing dogs help their deaf people in so many ways, and one of the most important is by sparking off conversation. Instead of feeling ignored, deaf people feel much more connected to the world around them. Libby's eventual deaf partner will certainly have a pretty little friend to help feel connected!

Meanwhile the traffic lights have gone, frankly, bonkers...

That's all from Libby for now. See you again in your next Libby Pupdate! Until then, thank you so much for sponsoring her!