Valley Center of the Deaf

Many Americans are familiar with the concept of seeing-eye dogs, but trained dogs can be great companions for deaf individuals as well. Dogs for the Deaf, located in Central Point, Oregon, is one of the organizations in American that works to place hearing dogs in households, all with no cost to either taxpayers or to the new owner (besides a 50 application fee). These dogs are taken from animal shelters and trained individually by a DFD professional, usually for 4 to 6 months. Microchipping and spaying/neutering is customary for all dogs, as is any medical care needed to ensure the dog’s health.DFD first started its mission in 1977, led by Hollywood and circus animal trainer Roy G. Kabat. Today, his daughter Robin Dickson serves as CEO and President of the organization. The “Hearing Dogs” program is actually just one of four that DFD offers. “Miracle Mutts” also places dogs with those in need, although not necessarily due to hearing impairment, while “Harmony’s Hounds” and “Career Change Dogs” help dogs with special needs find homes.If Oregon is out of your way but you’re in need of a hearing dog, Florida Dog Guides for the Deaf helps place hearing ear dogs with Florida residents. Other programs may be found through some research online, or simply by contacting a deaf assistance organization in your area. Hearing ear dogs can truly be a best friend for a deaf or hard of hearing person, and the dog will be just as happy to find a good home as their owner is to have them.