Robyn is a Demonstration Dog

Journey’s end

Robyn has come such a long way. Throughout her training journey, we constantly monitored her progress, so that we could consider what role would be best for her.

In your last update, we said that she’s exceptionally calm around new people and places. However, we also noticed that she could be shy of other dogs and needed an experienced handler for confidence.

It would have simply been unfair to place Robyn in these situations – meeting other dogs, in the park, on the high street, wherever a deaf person might want to go.

It would also have been unfair on a deaf person, expecting them to reassure Robyn as professionally as our staff trainers.

So, after giving this a lot of time and thought, we decided that the perfect role for Robyn is as an immensely talented and very highly regarded demonstration dog.

Robyn and hearing dogs trainers Helen and Jessie have a special video message for you at the end of this update. And you can also learn more about Robyn’s new role.

A hugely important role

Demonstration dogs show people their amazing skills, at events, presentations and talks. They are essential, because they help raise awareness of what we do. They love the company of people and being in the spotlight. They also like to show off a bit, especially when doing their soundwork. That’s Robyn through and through!

This means she will help spread the word about Hearing Dogs far and wide. In so doing, she will help not just one deaf person, but many deaf people throughout her career.

Moreover, Robyn will live with Helen, who was her trainer. They adore each other, and their bond will shine when giving demonstrations.

Helen and Robyn     

Helen is delighted to welcome Robyn into her home. “She is such a sweet girl. She is calm and affectionate with all the family. My sister lives very close by, on a farm, and Robyn is relaxed around all the cows, sheep and chickens. The farm also has a river running through it which she enjoys swimming in.

“Basically, I have open fields on my doorstep. It’s perfect for Robyn! She loves it.”

As well as getting along with cows, sheep and chickens, Robyn has also made special friends with Helen’s son. “They are together all the time. They sit and watch telly together, and she will sit with him for story time every night. They like to play hide-and-seek on walks. Robyn always wins!”

Putting Robyn’s happiness first

At Hearing Dogs, we put the well-being of our dogs front and centre, which is why we made this decision for Robyn.

We are delighted that Robyn and Helen continue to live a lovely life together and build on the bond they formed during her training. Here is the video that they made to tell you about Robyn's new role and how important demonstration dogs are to the Charity:

This has come about because of your kindness. As Helen says: “Robyn is a cuddly, loving lady. We could not have picked a better demonstration dog. She’s going to help so many deaf people to realise that they can lead full lives again.”

Robyn's cuddliness and love of people will really help when she is working as a demonstration dog and meeting members of the public. Here she is with her volunteers Heather and Guy (left) and Heike and her daughter Zoe (right).

This is where Robyn’s training journey ends. It would be wonderful if you could consider sponsoring another puppy.

However you decide, from all of us at Hearing Dogs for Deaf People…thank you.