Dog owners with hearing-impaired or deaf dogs know how special these animals can be to one’s life. Any dog can lose hearing throughout their lives and some are born deaf. You’ll even find that certain breeds, like Dalmatians, are more susceptible to hearing issues. To help bring awareness to deafness in dogs, signs of hearing loss, and how special these dogs can be, Deaf Dog Awareness Week was created. This special week is celebrated during the last full week of September each year. Let’s take a deeper look at this holiday, how it’s celebrated, and how you can take part.
Deaf Dog Awareness Week
While it’s a bit difficult to find the history of Deaf Dog Awareness Week, its importance cannot be denied. This special week started by PetFinder was set aside to celebrate the beauty, love, and connection deaf dogs provide families around the world. Many of us may not realize it, but temporary, partial, and even full deafness can affect a large percentage of dogs around the country. The loss of hearing, however, doesn’t change what these dogs can bring to a home. The key is to learn how to train, live with, and make these dogs part of the family.
Training a deaf dog can be difficult, but it is not impossible. Thanks to Deaf Dog Awareness Week, information and tips are shared with owners who have dogs in their homes who have difficulty hearing, were born deaf, or have lost their hearing throughout their lifetime. By using the information provided online, at your vet’s office, or with other pet owners in the same situation, a great life with your pet is possible.
How Is Deaf Dog Awareness Week Celebrated?
Deaf Dog Awareness Week is celebrated in many ways. For owners of deaf dogs, you may find them taking their pooch out on the town, helping to spread information on living with a dog with special needs. Veterinarian offices may send out information on how to know if your dog is suffering from the early signs of hearing loss or more progressive hearing issues. Even pet lovers who aren’t familiar with deaf dogs and living with them can celebrate by going out to ask questions, speaking with owners of deaf dogs, and even making charitable donations to deaf dog charities.
Another very special way to celebrate Deaf Dog Awareness Week is to visit local shelters or rescues that work with dogs suffering from hearing ailments. This not only allows you to spend time with special dogs who would love your attention, but it can show people without an understanding of deafness how to interact with these special needs animals. For those who truly want to take things to the next level, adopting a deaf dog allows you to bring one of these loving animals into your home to share your life with.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, Deaf Dog Awareness Week, happening during the last full week of September each year, is a great time to learn more about deafness in dogs and how you can help. Bringing a deaf dog into your life is a unique situation that allows you to fall in love with a wonderful animal. During this special week, learn what you can about deafness in dogs, spotting issues, and how you can help. Donations, time, and love are what’s needed to ensure deaf dogs receive the love and care they need.
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Featured Image Credit: Lizardflms, Shutterstock
Deaf Dog Awareness Week
