This is a common response from many people when they learn our dogs are deaf. However, our dogs give us no reason to feel sorry for them. They give us reason to look beyond a physical limitation and celebrate their zest for life and our relationships with them. They give us a reason to learn new ways to communicate. They give us reasons to laugh as we watch their antics, reasons to celebrate when we see them respond to a sign, when they are the best student in the class or when they are involved in competitive and non-competitive activities.

At the end of the day, when we are both worn out from games of tug-a-war, fetch or frisbee tossing, or just a leisurely walk through the neighborhood, they lie at our feet or beside us on the couch and give us a deep but soft gaze, acknowledging the special bond we have developed. We are truly lucky to share our lives with these special dogs.

The national Deaf Dog Education Action Fund (DDEAF) website has answers to many of the questions regarding deafness.